We started the meeting hosted by Debbie McAllen of Covenanters Corner Bookstore at Independent Presbyterian Church in Memphis, Tenn., with lunch and prayer while we talked and caught up with one another and the happenings in our stores. It was fun to sit and fellowship with people you love to be around, and with whom you share the same passions and ministry.

After lunch, we heard from two local vendors: Delta Jewels, which makes necklaces, earrings and other jewelry items to sell that support the ministry to young women; and Sassy Ts, quality shirts with beautiful designs that appeal to a broad category of buyers.

Next, we began a discussion about the Christian bookstore industry in these difficult times and how we must help maintain our bookstores as viable and self-supporting ministries in our churches.

Among the points that were made:

The first thing we should know and do is to determine what are the profitable categories in our store. Looking at month-end reports can help determine what categories are the strongest and which are the weakest.

It is important to stay on top of trends, by reading the trade magazines and e-news reports to stay abreast of the latest and greatest.

An inexpensive alternative to a store Web site might be to establish a Facebook page or blog for the store.

- Really focus on core customers. Know who they are and what they are buying.

- Offer coupons through church magazines, bulletins, or even e-mail blasts.

- Take advantage of the "book of the month" deals that some vendors offer.

- Establish best-sellers and new release displays, and keep them "fresh" by changing the books or moving them around.

We finished the meeting by visiting the Independent Presbyterian bookstore. It is a must-see, very cute and inviting and well-merchandised. It features a wardrobe through which children can enter the land of "Narnia," a children's play area.

Our next meeting will be 11 a.m.-2 p.m., July 31, at The Crosswalk Bookstore at Central Church in Collierville, Tenn.

-Rick Jones is region 3 (Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee) director for the Church Bookstore Network.