Megan Byers of Livres Babar Books, a family-run bookstore in Pointe-Claire, Quebec, that features primarily English-language books for the children's and teen market, fielded five questions from BookNet Canada. Among our favorite exchanges:
What attracted you to bookselling?
It's in my blood. My mother started the store 32 years ago. I've spent my whole life surrounded by the wonder and magic of stories. When I was younger, I never imagined taking over but, like a good book, the store drew me in and now I can't imagine doing anything else.
What is the most pressing issue facing bookselling today?
Developing and catering to our niche, while not excluding the larger audience. It's especially true with the under-18 crowd; we want to grow with them, encourage them, but still challenge them. Fostering a love of reading that will continue with their children. We have to be a constant for our customers and yet change with them.