Interestingly enough, when I look at some bookstore websites and pages, I’m wondering if the goals of the website and social media are well-defined. In particular, I’m talking about a few basics that are sometimes overlooked:
• WHERE is the bookstore?
• WHERE can I park?
• WHAT are the hours?
After all, isn’t that the point of having a brick & mortar store? Bringing customers in?
It’s not a surprise that campus bookstores are not often ideally located for the ease of drive-in traffic. And, granted, once classes start, students know where to find you. But what about all those potential customers that just might visit – parents dropping off kids for summer camps, prospective students and their families, fans of your sports team, seminar/event attendees? Even alumni can have difficulty finding the store as campus landscapes have a way of change over the years. And, don't even get me started on parking!
Yes, bookstore websites are often consumed with the mechanics of online text and apparel orders. However, the needle in a haystack approach to finding your store may be closing the door on your business. Put out the welcome mat with clearly posted hours (El Corral's Facebook provile picture) and easy directions including parking (Skyline College Bookstore website).
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