Book Quote by Wendy Welch
![“The essential criterion for running a bookstore is less "Do you like books?" than "Do you like people?" Ironically, we find that having unlimited access to more reading material than we ever could have imagined means we read less. Chuck and Dee Robinson own Village Books [...]He once said in an…” quote by Wendy Welch](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/69b/wendy-welch-47358_book_the-essential-criterion-for-running-a-bo_2862836.jpg)
““The essential criterion for running a bookstore is less "Do you like books?" than "Do you like people?" Ironically, we find that having unlimited access to more reading material than we ever could have imagined means we read less. Chuck and Dee Robinson own Village Books [...]He once said in an interview with business writer Rober Spector, "If you're opening a bookstore because you love reading books, then become a night watchman because you'll be able to read more books that way." He was right. It's amazing how just the sight of so much intellectual fodder quells the appetite, let alone how little time remains to read once the shelves have been straightened, the day's swap credits assessed and put away, and the sales taxes tallied.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Business writer Robert Spector, date unknown
Running a bookstore succeeds more on people skills than book love; abundance of books paradoxically reduces reading time.
In simple terms: People skills matter more than book love; many books can limit reading.
Key Takeaway
Focus on customer connection, not just inventory.
Themes
customer service
reading habits
business management
Mood
reflective
analytical
pragmatic
Type
advice
observational
business.
When to use this quote
- bookstore ownership
- library work
- retail management
- personal reading goals
Key Concepts
psychology of abundance
paradox of choice
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance inventory with personal reading?
- What strategies keep staff engaged with customers?
A Different Perspective
Abundance may overwhelm, leading to analysis paralysis.
