Book Publishers NW at PNBA

The Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association Fall trade show drew approximately 355 exhibitors to the Oregon Convention Center this October. Book Publishers Northwest displayed more than thirty of its member’s books at this trade show. For the first time, BPNW allowed books to be ordered on site, but this resulted in only a few sales. Most interested booksellers made notes, and picked up brochures and postcards as a reminders, then intended to order from their distributors.

BPNW volunteers worked on the exhibition floor Thursday evening setting up tables for BPNW and for PMA/Independent Book Publishers Association. Books were flying everywhere but by Friday morning each table was beautifully arranged and well staffed.

BPNW volunteers had opportunities to interact with 78 librarians and 390 booksellers representing about 126 stores from the region. Floor traffic both days was disappointing and exhibitors perceived a much lower attendance versus past years. However, many reported that people spent more time talking books at booths compared to years when the floor was jammed.

BPNW volunteers staffed both the BPNW and the PMA booth with enthusiasm. Representing the association were Lani Jacobsen (74th Street Productions), Peter Kahle (74th Street Productions), Jan Walker (Raven Publishing), Diane Kinman (Wimer Publishing), John Diviny (Wilder Productions), and Margaret Doyle (Port Gamble Publishing). In addition, BPNW sister association in Oregon, NWABP, provided help, experience and good will from members Marvin Mitchell, Barbara Whittaker, and Linda who all did double-duty staffing the PMA booth and their own adjacent table.

At the conclusion of the show, remaining books were donated to the Hooper Bay Library and the White Mountain Library in rural Alaska – both totally destroyed by fire this year. This was a satisfying and warm finish to a warm October weekend.

submitted by Lani Jacobsen, 74th Street Productions