Friday, January 8, 2010

A Paradigm Shift

When the Loveland newspaper did a story on local retailers and gift-buying just before Christmas, Anthology was not only highlighted but a delightful color photo of our store manager graced the page. Those of you who know Teresa will appreciate how she always provides excellent customer service with a smile, while paying close attention to the needs of those who shop here.

It was apparent that more and more people became aware of Anthology and what we have to offer over this past holiday season. Teresa stated in the article that "a lot of people we help say they are trying to support local business". Customers would remark that they wanted to buy from us, rather than head out to the chain stores. Comments and sentiments such as these certainly brought a smile, and sense of pride, to the Anthology staff.

Could there be a shift in what was once a different view of shopping? One customer remarked how nice it is to "talk with a real and caring bookseller" while I assisted her in finding a book on the shelf. Others are slowly coming around to the importance of supporting local businesses; often commenting on the lower price at one of the chain or big box stores for paperbacks or gift items. I simply smile as I hand them their purchase and thank them sincerely for shopping with us.

If we don't do what we can to protect the independent businesses in America, we will lose sight of some very important values and economic tenets. "Independent" may be defined as "higher quality, more focused and less restrictive" business practices. "Local" implies we are in touch with our region, city and state, while offering titles, services and goods that appeal to those who shop here. "Community" is a giving back; sustaining and embracing what makes a town a unique and desirable place to live, work and play.

Together, Anthology is proud to be your independent, local bookstore in Loveland. Thank you to all who make the effort to support Anthology Book Company and to shop locally.
Bridget

1 comment:

Heidi said...

I think this is true. Hopefully the trend will continue.

I came by and sat in Anthology today after a stressful morning and it was truly calming. Drinking my coffee in a corner chair, listening to the buzz of the store around me, I was reminded of how important stores such as Anthology are, not only to our community, but to our very souls. I don't want to get too deep here, but I do feel it's imperative that these types of stores continue to exist and thrive.

Keep up the good work!