A Callout for Local First Title Recommendations

In the coming weeks, the American Booksellers Association and IndieBound will be updating the selected reading list of local first titles, a compilation of informative titles on the importance of building and strengthening a vibrant local economy.

First compiled in 2006 and updated in January 2008, the list covers topics ranging from the true cost of chain mega-retailers to strategies regarding how retailers can work to create profitable businesses that help build strong local communities. Available as a PDF, the list has provided booksellers with a helpful shortlist for booksellers' own reading and, importantly, a marketing tool to update and expand 'local first' sections and title displays in their stores.

To help ensure that the updated list is as current and informative as possible, ABA is encouraging booksellers to send in their suggestions for titles to be included.

Suggested titles can be e-mailed to Dan Cullen, ABA senior director for editorial content, at [email protected]. (Please put "Shop Local Titles" in the subject line and send by Wednesday, July 29.) The current list of local first titles is available on BookWeb.org.