Nothing is without cost, and I believe I've heard of stores having success with internet cafes or dedicated computer space for local writers.
If you want a key, it's localization. What do the shoppers/readers in the local area want? What local artistry and humanities work can a store support?
That store in Pennsylvania holds jewelry and craft shows to draw people in, but they still sell more books than anything else. I suppose the local people liked that kind of thing. I agree with you that the humanity of a store can be a great part of its success, but that isn't what draws in new people; it's what brings people back.
I agree that localization is the best idea. A music store in my city used to (they may still) accept zines and CDs from locals on a consignment basis. The process was standardized and fairly quick. Local products were exposed and the store got its percentage.
And there are so many people working as musicians, writers and artists that it would be an excellent way in general to process and provide an outlet for the so-called glut of works--maybe even something in the way of a farm system.
John, what do you mean by farm system?
I think promoting self-published local writers, artists, and musicians has appeal, though it could get crazy.
What do you think about a bookseller publishing a literary newspaper/newsletter? Not the typical store catalog, but real articles and reviews.
Oh. I wasn't thinking in those terms. That is a good idea, though publishers may prefer something closer to fiefdom like a ghost writing system where an editor is written for by a team of unknowns.
Phil,
I read the article. Sounds like everything I said last week.
How do they win? Think anything that can't be cost or Internet related. Human contact is one area.