The Troubling Absence of Bookdealers

Posted on by Jim

In years past it was common to see reps from Eisenbrauns and Hendrickson and others which specialize in biblical studies and archaeology at the regional SBL meetings.  Those days seem to be gone.

I think there are two factors:  1- The increasing popularity of ebooks (which undercuts print publishing) and 2- giant booksellers like Amazon (which undercuts prices so excessively that publishers simply can’t compete directly).

Now while many rejoice both at the advent of ebooks (which certainly do have their place, but their cost may well be higher than we presently realize) and giant bookdealers with low, low prices (again, costing us all more than we realize) I lament.

I think there is something incredibly important about publishers and academics interacting face to face.  We’re in a partnership after all and when one or both of the partners don’t see the value of it then the future of both academic publishing and scholarship may be in danger.

I think it’s worth our collective consideration.  I don’t care to see any more of this:

And that’s the extent of Eisenbrauns’ presence…   :(

[Do note, I don't blame E. for not being here- I understand why they aren't.  I just think it's something to think about].

3 Responses to The Troubling Absence of Bookdealers

  1. I on the cutting edge of societal evolution: I HATE ebooks for reading. The only reason I like them is for the ease of copying and pasting.
    On the other hand, Amazon is a great help. I live in a rural area with no bookstore near me. The nearest, best bookstore is at NOBTS which is over an hour away.
    I can’t win for losing, it seems. I’d rather support a good local bookseller and buy from them.
    I don’t know how all of that will turn around, though.

  3. Jim,

    We choose carefully which regionals we attend. Last year I went to SECSOR in Louisville. This year—actually, next weekend—I will be in Dallas/Fort Worth for the SWCRS.

    I send catalogs and order forms to most regionals. To some I also send sample books. It just depends—but you are correct about the influx of large booksellers and e-books. The whole industry is in a flux right now and nobody knows how it will come out.

    James