Winter Institute

Raffaelli identified key findings that he believes are what have supported the growth of the indie channel, but he also looked ahead to industry-specific challenges and how booksellers can address them.

“All I wanted [in life] was to be around books, and even now, decades later, I still feel that way,” said Boylan. “Booksellers and publishers are among the people I most admire in the world.”

“Part of what we’re trying to do in books is to turn people into readers and listeners, into people who pay attention to other voices, other experiences, other perspectives,” said Solnit.

The 16th annual Winter Institute will take place in Cincinnati, Ohio, from February 7 to February 10, 2021.

It’s a thrill for ABA that booksellers from around the country — and world — will gather in the city of Baltimore next week for four days of learning, camaraderie, and connections. May this suggested Winter Institute itinerary from ABA Content Director Sydney Jarrard help you find your way among the many events Winter Institute has to offer.

Ingram’s “Indies on the Harbor” offers all Winter Institute attendees an opportunity to relax and chat with independent booksellers and publishers from around the country and the globe in a cozy corner of the hotel overlooking the famed Camden Yards ballpark. 

Attendees will hear from Jordan Brannon, president and COO of Coalition Technologies, an SEO and web design agency, about the value of search engine optimization to independent bookstores.

Dave Grogan and Molly Bond of the American Booksellers for Free Expression and ABA’s Advocacy team will be on hand to address bookseller questions and concerns.

Booksellers will have the chance to sample a variety of board games with colleagues or game reps, review discounts, and place orders in the Board Game Playroom.