Books are amazing – they can open portals through time and space, teach you things that you would never be able to do first hand, and give you the chance to live the life of someone else without ever leaving your chair.
When I got the opportunity to speak to our next guest, I was excited to hear from someone who has the awesome job of introducing people to the wonderful world of independent books.
Please introduce yourself to our readers…
My name is Lisa Kindel, Media Gal Friday.
Can you tell us what company you work for?
Joseph Beth Booksellers, Lexington, KY
What is your title there?
Bookseller
What are the exact responsibilities of your job?
I sell books to a variety of people in Central Kentucky, not to mention the cool Kentucky Proud items that I sell too.
What is it about your job that makes you love it?
I get to share my passion for books, no matter what title or author, with the people of the Bluegrass. I have conversations with anyone and everyone, helping them find something that gives them a little happiness. I work with some amazing booksellers with whom I share that glee at finding a new book/author/character.
It’s that connection on the human level of what makes us happy when looking for a book, even when it’s for someone else.
What particular skills or talents are most essential to completing your tasks?
- Common sense organization
- creativity for displays that engage
- book knowledge
- passion for publishers and authors
- love of the written word
What level of education would you say is required to perform your role?
I have a BA in English Lit so that certainly helps.
I also have self-taught advertising design experience from years in print and digital publications.
Do you find that you bring your work home with you? (And is that a good or bad thing?)
I bring books home to read for pleasure which, of course, helps me sell better. I do some research from home to see what’s trending and who’s talking what regarding street dates, etc.
How does this job compare to other jobs you’ve held in the past?
This is by far my best bookselling position–autonomy, quality books, great colleagues, great customers that come and in and genuinely appreciate what we do and how we do it.
What is your favorite food?
I currently crave a Dynamite Roll from Tomo, a really good sushi place here in Lexington.
Thanks for sharing with us Lisa! You can reach her on Twitter @lrkindel.