Bookseller Blueprints
Learn. Collaborate. Build.
Bookseller Blueprints is a virtual education series created just for our bookstore members! Each month, we’ll dive into a different aspect of MIBA membership and bookselling — from events and marketing tools to networking opportunities and growth resources — giving you practical takeaways, tools to strengthen your store and get the most out of your membership.
What you need to know:
- Each month’s session happens during the second full week, with two times to choose from
- Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. CST or Thursday at 6:00 p.m. CST.
- Every 30–45 minute session is recorded and archived (link at the bottom of this page), so you can revisit the ideas anytime.
- All resources shared during sessions will be provided in a follow up e-mail to attendees.
- Session surveys will also be emailed for feedback and improvements to the series (we want to hear your ideas for future sessions!)
- Future sessions are added on a rolling basis!
New Registration Process:
- Log in to your Member Compass account.
- Visit the event page of the session you want to attend (using the links below).
- Click the 'Register Now' button.
- Select your name from the dropdown list (your profile info will automatically fill in).
- Submit your registration.
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You’ll receive a confirmation email right away, followed by event reminders closer to the date!
Important Access Items:
- Individual Registration Only: You can only register yourself.
- Unique Join Links: The system generates a personalized link just for you. If anyone else tries to use your link on the day of the event, they will be blocked from accessing the session.
- You may join the session up to 5 minutes before the start time.
Need help or have questions? Check out this help article with instructions and helpful screenshots.
Upcoming Sessions:
October: Holiday Strategies
The holiday season is just around the corner — is your store ready? This session focuses on the final stretch of holiday prep, with practical strategies for merchandising, staffing, and creating a strong in-store experience. We’ll cover what to prioritize now, how to set up displays that sell, and ways to keep things running smoothly during your busiest weeks.
Takeaway: Leave with a clear, actionable plan to prepare your store for the holiday rush and make the most of your busiest sales season.
Tuesday, October 20 at 10:00 am | Thursday, October 22 at 6:00 pm
November: Jumpstarting January
The holiday rush is over… now what? January can be one of the toughest months for bookstores, but it’s also an opportunity to reset, reconnect, and build momentum for the year ahead.
In this session, we’ll share practical strategies for navigating the post-holiday slowdown — from creative events and promotions to inventory resets, cash flow awareness, and community engagement. We’ll also explore ways to keep customers coming through your doors (even in the coldest, quietest weeks of the year).
Takeaway: Walk away with realistic, actionable ideas to navigate the January slowdown, maintain customer engagement, and set your store up for a strong start to the year.
Tuesday, November 10 at 10:00 am | Thursday, November 12 at 6:00 pm
December: Holiday Survival Check-In
You’re in the thick of it — let’s take a quick pause together. This informal session is a space for booksellers to share what’s working, troubleshoot challenges, and swap ideas during the busiest time of year.
Takeaway: Leave with a few quick, actionable ideas (and a reminder that you’re not alone in the holiday rush).
Tuesday, December 8 at 10:00 am | Thursday, December 10 at 6:00 pm
Sponsorship Information:
Sponsoring the program means the session is yours to plan, with our help producing and marketing it. Ideas include: sharing updates, highlighting specific information, teaching on a specific area of expertise, and getting feedback from booksellers. It's the chance to communicate directly with our indies in an intimate setting.
Marketing includes a stand-alone e-blast, call-outs in the weekly newsletters, a listing on our event calendar, and inclusion on our dedicated web page (this one!).
Purchase here or reach out with any questions.
