Discussion With Roxanne Coady Yields New Ideas For Future Of R.J. Julia

Roxanne Coady, owner of R.J. Julia Booksellers in Madison, met with loyal customers and members of the community to talk about how customers can best be served by the store in the future. Among the many topics discussed during the 90-minute event were the direction of the bookstore, events and classes, and how the digital age is changing the industry.

Patrons who attended the discussion Friday afternoon were interested in adding literary magazines and sophisticated book reviews  to the store's merchandise.  There was less interest in mainstream magazines. A used-book buy back program also was discussed as something that coudl be done either through a third-party used book sellers, or directly through R.J. Julia, or both.

There were requests for more activities and events geared toward children, and Coady said she is considering increasing both the frequency and variety of classes.  Some of the subjects suggested were writing, knitting, bridge and foreign languages.  The discussion around the room turned toward additional community events, such as a game-afternoon on Sundays that would allow members of the community to meet together.  

Before discussion attendees adjourned for the evening, the group also discussed the influence of electronics on the literary world and how R.J. Julia might offer more value to clients who want to read digital books or order online.  

"Twenty-six percent of people who come into the store do so to find out what to read and then go to buy online," Coady said.  She invited discussion attendees to suggest which services would add value to purchasing books from R.J. Julia. In addition to the prospect of being able to order books from the store online, the store is already selling e-books (compatible with most devices, such as the Nook).  

There were, of course, other topics up for discussion, such as member benefits, book clubs and R.J. Julia Staff Suggestions.  The second discussion is planned for Monday, March 7, 2011 at 7:00 pm, at the bookstore.  The discussion is open to the community, but registration is encouraged so that there will be adequate seating (you can do so using the link "discussion").

If you are unable to attend the discussion, but have questions or ideas, you can reach the store (and Roxanne Coady) by using the contact form.