There is no easy answer to this. Audiobooks are a niche product, and you have to determine where the target customer is most likely going to look for them. In my store, we use spinners. It gives the visual impact of seeing the whole selection at one time. It's attractive and adds importance to the category.

There are those of the opinion, however, that the audio version of a book should be placed next to the hardcover or trade paper version on the shelf. My only objection to this approach is that they can become lost on a heavily filled bookshelf.

You may find that your customers respond to cross-stocking, but whatever style of shelving you choose, remember that most audiobook customers are serious readers. Some use audiobooks to make good use of time spent commuting, and others with vision problems may prefer this method of enjoying a book.

In order to make this section pay for itself, you will have to market your audiobooks. And don't be afraid to carry some classic books and even Bibles.

Got a question for Betty Bookstore? Write to her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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