March 28, 2020

NM Book Co-op HELP CENTER #13

HIT MY FUNNYBONE:

POSITIVE NEWS

Some good news to post about museums and libraries and other similar institutions. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that the President signed includes some help for museums (remember they buy our books for their gift shops). Don't know if libraries are included with any special help yet.

SUPPORTIVE COMMENTS
We have been getting a lot of feedback and many comments on our HELP CENTER, including from Patricia Walkow, Lynda Sanchez

Patricia Walkow said: "Thanks for posting these updates. They help keep people connected."

OOOPPS: There was problem with the web link for Jim Tritten's video (my fault). Here is the corrected one if you had a problem with it: https://youtu.be/Z-w8l2fH52s

A SPECIAL SHOUT-OUT TO MARYSUE SMITH
It is very gratifying when Co-opers step up. MarySue Smith asked if she could help update our distribution list for media. She sent me two files of newspaper entertainment/book editors from NM and AZ. Thanks very much! Still no takers yet on help in putting together an up-to-date list of bookstores/gift shops and libraries in AZ and NM. I'd love to have some help there.

Thanks to all of you!

C-19 NEWS

B&N Temporarily Closes 400 Outlets
The retailer has temporarily closed about 400 stores to the public as it works with state and local official to comply with shelter-in-place rules. At many outlets that are closed for in-store shopping, B&N is continuing to offer curbside pickup for online orders. — https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/bookselling/article/82842-b-n-temporarily-closes-400-outlets.html

ON-GOING LIST OF SUPPORT IDEAS: As a reminder of previous notes, here are things we all can do to support each other:
* Sign up for bookstore and local business email lists/blasts about current news
* Use curbside pickup and online ordering
* Buy gift certificates from local businesses for later redemption
* Don't forget emergency food programs — www.nmfoodbanks.org
* Talk with local business owners to explore other ideas -- by phone or email
* Cover•Reads — sign up to have your book promoted to stores and libraries all across the Southwest http://nmbookcoop.com/CoverReads/CoverReads/CoverReadsPromo.html

WAYS TO HELP DURING THIS CRISIS
Many of us are asking how we can help. While many in-person volunteer opportunities are suspended due to social distancing, there are still ways to make a difference.
* Donate Time and Money
* Check on family, friends and neighbors
* Share accurate information

Best advice:
* Don't panic and hoard
* Wash your hands
* Stay home and practice social distancing