Imaginary bookstores
You know, people say “Go shop at independent booksellers! They’re wonderful and friendly and they need you!” And I will certainly agree that used booksellers tend to be quite friendly, and sure, we used to have this wonderful independent bookseller (Canadian only), but they shut. And the independent bookstores here? Full of obnoxious pretentious grumps. No, I don’t want you following me around all the time, but if I go into a small bookstore I would at least like the courtesy of a “hello, may I help you?” instead of listening to you all talking about your new hats and an obnoxious customer from last week.
Seriously, I went in that store and was so irritated by the staff that I swore I would never go in again. You want me to pay a lot more than the already higher Canadian prices? Fine, but then I expect that I am paying for customer service: please provide it.
I really want to know where all these wonderful independent bookstores are. They’re certainly not *here*.