What makes a good bookshop?

Question

What makes a good bookshop?
Im looking into opening an independent store. I know most small business go into the ground after months and think the way to go is either a location or b niche product.

Answer

When I buy something I go to one of two placesbr the Internet or big cheap store amazon or HMVbr specialist shop with great staff.brYour shop has to be in category . I buy all my music on line except heavy metal music, I travel miles on the train to go to York to get heavy metal music from a special shop there. I like the fact the guy there says quotIf you like this band you should try this onequot and also when you ask quotwhat is this singer like?quot he will say quota bit like Ozzy but not as goodquot. Its great that he is helpful, knows the stock and does not exaggerate how good a mediocre product is.brI also buy graphic novels from a local shop because of the standard of service. I like the way he will order in specific books for me and also emails me when they arrive in stock. He has also begun to stock some lines I have ordered in the past so that my friends who have borrowed books off me can get copies too.brbrBasically product knowledge, enthusiasm and service are what keeps me buying from shops, the Internet may win out on price but as often as not I will pay a bit more for good advice and a friendly conversation.brbrOne last thing stock a lot of Doctor Who books. This show is fantastically popular and has won loads of awards, the books are great and I am sure you will sell loads of copies. brbrGood luck with your shop if it is Yorkshire make sure to tell me about it and I may drop by!