What are some upcoming trends?
From what I can see, the trend of self-discovery, healthy living, and finding a formula for a happy life continues to grow. These themes or trends can take shape in any number of genres, whether it’s business (The Happiness Equation by Neil Pasricha); self-help (Spark Joy: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo), psychology (Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain), and most recently Oprah Winfrey’s new cookbook, (Food, Health and Happiness).
What book/genre/topic would you like to see cross your transom?
Our customers are always looking for the next big novel—i.e., Anthony Doerr’s 2015 Pulitzer Prize winner, All The Light We Cannot See—it’s always nice for a bookstore to have a powerhouse book that keeps on selling. I love to see books that speak to all people on what matters most—quality of life, love, and a sense of belonging and purpose. Books that explore how we are more alike than how we are unalike—books that examine and help us understand our differences. One of my absolute favorites is W. Bruce Cameron’s A Dog’s Purpose—a story of love and devotion seen through the eyes of a dog who discovers his own purpose. This is definitely a book most anyone would love and enjoy!
What don’t you ever want to see again?
I believe we have seen and heard enough negative political commentary. The hope is that we can move forward as a nation and come together and heal—books can play a major role in the healing process.
What is unique about your corner of the industry?
Being a town-and-gown bookstore makes us unique and loved by our customers. We strive to provide excellent customer service and offer a host of exciting book related events for all ages. Located approximately two miles from campus, we are in the heart of downtown Fairfield—a thriving walkable area that’s full of shops and restaurants and is close to the beach. We work closely with our local public libraries, schools, businesses and Chamber of Commerce. Fairfield’s One Book One Town event, held every year in March, in association with the Fairfield Public Library, Pequot Library, Fairfield University, Fairfield Museum and History Center and the Friends of the Fairfield Public Library, is one of our highlights. We are truly a central meeting place for the community.
Anything else you’d like to add?
The Fairfield University Bookstore celebrated being open for five years in November 2016 and we continue to learn and grow! In that time we have had the opportunity to host Julie Andrews, Jan Brett, Martha Stewart, Mike Lupica, Tim Green, Dav Pilkey, Rosemary Wells, Tony Abbott, and the list goes on. It is an honor and a privilege to be included among the nations’ booksellers. A bookstore is where it’s at!
Nancy L. Quinn is the special events coordinator & community outreach of the Fairfield University Bookstore/Follett Store. Nancy works closely with local librarians, teachers, town officials, business owners, university faculty, staff and students, as well as Follett marketing and fellow Follett associates.
