By Cynthia Hoppe

Though church attendance can dip in the summer, business doesn't have to slow if you turn your bookstore into a one-stop shop for congregants' summer resource needs.

Many customers will come in looking for resources to keep themselves and their children occupied on car trips. While they may be looking for DVDs for the kids to watch, they'll also be searching for something they can listen to while driving.

What a great time to showcase your audiobooks and your church's message CDs. This gives people a chance to further investigate a topic of interest or listen to a book that's been on their "to-read" list.

Music is also good to highlight. Suggest a worship CD for people who will be driving scenic routes. If you can suggest a CD that both kids and parents will like, you will be a hero. Any activity books that keep kids occupied on airplanes or in cars will also be warmly welcomed.

When grandparents who will have family visiting come into your store, have some beautiful picture books in mind to recommend to them. Encourage them to read the books to their grandchildren and to send the books home with them to help them remember their time together.

Cynthia Hoppe managed the Seeds Resource Center at Willowcreek Community Church in South Barrington, Ill., for six years.

Read the complete article at http://www.thechurchbookstore.com/a.php?ArticleID=13228

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