Tuesday, October 6
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
CANCELED Dungeon Crawler Carl Pre-Con Event
St. Croix I (6)
Unfortunately this event is canceled due to a health situation. We apologize for the inconvenience.
CANCELED Dungeon Crawler Carl Pre-Con Event
St. Croix I (6)
Unfortunately this event is canceled due to a health situation. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Wednesday, October 7
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Friends of Bill | Crystal Lake (8)
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Registration Desk (4) Check-in, grab your tote bag, get your badge!
Educational Retreats:
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Spring Park Bay (8)
Buyer’s Retreat
Designed for dedicated buyers as well as booksellers who balance buying with other responsibilities. This retreat offers practical education for strengthening your store's buying strategy. We'll explore budgeting and planning, making the most of Edelweiss, building productive relationships with publisher sales representatives and the value of buying direct. We'll also discuss the role of sidelines in a healthy retail mix, including strategies for merchandising and determining the right percentage for your store.
Format:
• First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
• Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
• Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Wayzata Bay (8)
Events Retreat
Designed for event managers, event staff and anyone looking to grow or strengthen their bookstore's events program. This retreat shines a light on three experienced booksellers who have built exceptional in store and off site events. Learn practical strategies for planning successful events, maximizing book sales, working effectively with publishers and creating meaningful follow-up. Through real world examples and candid discussion, these innovative event planners will share the lessons, best practices and creative ideas they've developed over years of experience.
Format:
• First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
• Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
• Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Gray's Bay (8)
Manager’s Retreat
Designed for bookstore managers and those in leadership roles. This retreat focuses on the practical skills needed to lead with confidence. Through presentations, discussion, and peer learning, we'll explore managing relationships with owners and staff, navigating conflict, fostering accountability, communicating across different personalities and generations and setting healthy professional boundaries. Participants will also receive guidance on developing essential store policies, procedures and documentation, along with resources to help build or strengthen their management toolkit.
Format:
First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Excelsior Bay (8)
Owner's Retreat 1-5 years
Designed specifically for bookstore owners in years one through five of business. This retreat offers practical education and peer discussion to help build a strong foundation for longterm success. We'll explore the systems and habits that are easiest to establish early. From creating effective staff, policy and procedural manuals. To understanding merchandise turns, budgeting basics, returns workflows and ordering direct. Whether you're refining your operations or laying the groundwork for future growth, you'll leave with actionable ideas that will put your store in a stronger position for years to come.
Format:
First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Lafayette Bay (8)
Owner's Retreat 5+ years
Designed for bookstore owners with five or more years of operation, this retreat offers a focused space to connect with peers facing many of the same challenges. Together, we'll discuss the most pressing issues affecting experienced store owners today, explore strategies for developing strong leaders within your team and share practical approaches to empowering staff to take on greater responsibility. We'll also examine ways to build sustainable leadership practices and avoid burnout while continuing to grow and strengthen your business.
Format:
• First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
• Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
• Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
12:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Twin Cities Bookstore Tour | Meet in the Lobby (5)
Check out our brave & hard-working Twin Cities Bookstores!
If you love seeing how other bookstores do things and want to share the ride with old and new bookseller and industry friends, this is the event for you!
Tour stops for each bus are still being determined. When they are finalized, you will be given the opportunity to choose your tour. Each will be limited by bus capacity on a first come-first serve basis.
5:30 PM - 6:15 PM
Heartland Orientation | St. Croix I (6)
First time at the event? Let us walk you through some how-to's and ideas to make the most of it!
Friends of Bill | Crystal Lake (8)
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Registration Desk (4) Check-in, grab your tote bag, get your badge!
Educational Retreats:
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Spring Park Bay (8)
Buyer’s Retreat
Designed for dedicated buyers as well as booksellers who balance buying with other responsibilities. This retreat offers practical education for strengthening your store's buying strategy. We'll explore budgeting and planning, making the most of Edelweiss, building productive relationships with publisher sales representatives and the value of buying direct. We'll also discuss the role of sidelines in a healthy retail mix, including strategies for merchandising and determining the right percentage for your store.
Format:
• First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
• Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
• Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Wayzata Bay (8)
Events Retreat
Designed for event managers, event staff and anyone looking to grow or strengthen their bookstore's events program. This retreat shines a light on three experienced booksellers who have built exceptional in store and off site events. Learn practical strategies for planning successful events, maximizing book sales, working effectively with publishers and creating meaningful follow-up. Through real world examples and candid discussion, these innovative event planners will share the lessons, best practices and creative ideas they've developed over years of experience.
Format:
• First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
• Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
• Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Gray's Bay (8)
Manager’s Retreat
Designed for bookstore managers and those in leadership roles. This retreat focuses on the practical skills needed to lead with confidence. Through presentations, discussion, and peer learning, we'll explore managing relationships with owners and staff, navigating conflict, fostering accountability, communicating across different personalities and generations and setting healthy professional boundaries. Participants will also receive guidance on developing essential store policies, procedures and documentation, along with resources to help build or strengthen their management toolkit.
Format:
First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Excelsior Bay (8)
Owner's Retreat 1-5 years
Designed specifically for bookstore owners in years one through five of business. This retreat offers practical education and peer discussion to help build a strong foundation for longterm success. We'll explore the systems and habits that are easiest to establish early. From creating effective staff, policy and procedural manuals. To understanding merchandise turns, budgeting basics, returns workflows and ordering direct. Whether you're refining your operations or laying the groundwork for future growth, you'll leave with actionable ideas that will put your store in a stronger position for years to come.
Format:
First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
8:30 am - 11:30 am | Lafayette Bay (8)
Owner's Retreat 5+ years
Designed for bookstore owners with five or more years of operation, this retreat offers a focused space to connect with peers facing many of the same challenges. Together, we'll discuss the most pressing issues affecting experienced store owners today, explore strategies for developing strong leaders within your team and share practical approaches to empowering staff to take on greater responsibility. We'll also examine ways to build sustainable leadership practices and avoid burnout while continuing to grow and strengthen your business.
Format:
• First Hour: (8:30am - 9:25am)
Roundtables: Sharing top concerns, open discussing and problem solving.
• Second Hour: (9:30am - 10:25am)
Presentation: Educator lead presentation discussion the topics above.
• Third Hour: (10:30am - 11:30am)
Q&A: Time for open discussion and to answer questions.
12:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Twin Cities Bookstore Tour | Meet in the Lobby (5)
Check out our brave & hard-working Twin Cities Bookstores!
If you love seeing how other bookstores do things and want to share the ride with old and new bookseller and industry friends, this is the event for you!
Tour stops for each bus are still being determined. When they are finalized, you will be given the opportunity to choose your tour. Each will be limited by bus capacity on a first come-first serve basis.
5:30 PM - 6:15 PM
Heartland Orientation | St. Croix I (6)
First time at the event? Let us walk you through some how-to's and ideas to make the most of it!
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Heartland Book Awards Ceremony | Minneapolis Room (6)
Celebrate our award winning authors and the recipient of the 2026 Voice of the Heartland honor. We are thrilled this year's ceremony will be hosted by Autumn Brown!
The Heartland Booksellers Award is a reflection of handselling at its best, as all the books are selected directly by independent booksellers, and celebrate literature in the Midwest and Great Lakes, with content about the region, or an author from our region. The Heartland Booksellers Award is a joint award given annually by the Great Lakes Independent Booksellers Association and Midwest Independent Booksellers Association at Heartland Fall Forum in October. Congratulations to this year's winners!
Heartland Book Awards Ceremony | Minneapolis Room (6)
Celebrate our award winning authors and the recipient of the 2026 Voice of the Heartland honor. We are thrilled this year's ceremony will be hosted by Autumn Brown!
The Heartland Booksellers Award is a reflection of handselling at its best, as all the books are selected directly by independent booksellers, and celebrate literature in the Midwest and Great Lakes, with content about the region, or an author from our region. The Heartland Booksellers Award is a joint award given annually by the Great Lakes Independent Booksellers Association and Midwest Independent Booksellers Association at Heartland Fall Forum in October. Congratulations to this year's winners!
Congratulations to 2026 Voice of the Heartland Winner, David Underwood! David will be presented the award by Ruth Liebman from Penguin Random House during the Heartland Booksellers Award Ceremony.
The Great Lakes Independent Booksellers Association (GLIBA) and the Midwest Independent Booksellers Association (MIBA) are pleased to announce that David Underwood, recently retired from Penguin Random House, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Voice of the Heartland Award! Underwood will receive the award in person at the Heartland Booksellers Award Ceremony on Wednesday, October 7 during Heartland Fall Forum in Minneapolis. (full announcement)
The Great Lakes Independent Booksellers Association (GLIBA) and the Midwest Independent Booksellers Association (MIBA) are pleased to announce that David Underwood, recently retired from Penguin Random House, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Voice of the Heartland Award! Underwood will receive the award in person at the Heartland Booksellers Award Ceremony on Wednesday, October 7 during Heartland Fall Forum in Minneapolis. (full announcement)
Heartland Booksellers Award Ceremony Hosted by Autumn Brown!
Autumn Brown is an artist, organizer, theologian, and facilitator dedicated to political education and liberatory practice. She is the co-host of the beloved podcast How to Survive the End of the World with her sister, adrienne maree brown. A worker-owner of the AORTA cooperative and a student of aikido and yoga, she grounds her work in the belief that healing emanates from the human heart. She lives in Minneapolis with her three brilliant children.
Find the author at iambrown.org or on social media.
Autumn Brown is an artist, organizer, theologian, and facilitator dedicated to political education and liberatory practice. She is the co-host of the beloved podcast How to Survive the End of the World with her sister, adrienne maree brown. A worker-owner of the AORTA cooperative and a student of aikido and yoga, she grounds her work in the belief that healing emanates from the human heart. She lives in Minneapolis with her three brilliant children.
Find the author at iambrown.org or on social media.
8:00 PM - 11:00 PM | Open Book Minneapolis
Open Night Party Sponsored by Milkweed Editions!
Kick off Heartland Fall Forum at Open Book in Minneapolis. Celebrate being together with drinks, bites, and camaraderie. Open to all attendees! There will be a bus running back and forth from the hotel starting at 7:45 pm and ending at 11:00 pm.
Open Night Party Sponsored by Milkweed Editions!
Kick off Heartland Fall Forum at Open Book in Minneapolis. Celebrate being together with drinks, bites, and camaraderie. Open to all attendees! There will be a bus running back and forth from the hotel starting at 7:45 pm and ending at 11:00 pm.
Thursday, October 8
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Registration Desk (4) Check-in, grab your tote bag, get your badge!
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Friends of Bill | Crystal Lake (8)
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Marquee Author Breakfast | Grand Portage Ballroom 3 & 4 (4)
A ticketed event featuring marquee authors in conversation about their work, followed by signings.
Registration Desk (4) Check-in, grab your tote bag, get your badge!
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Friends of Bill | Crystal Lake (8)
8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Marquee Author Breakfast | Grand Portage Ballroom 3 & 4 (4)
A ticketed event featuring marquee authors in conversation about their work, followed by signings.
Education
9:30 AM - 10:20 AM
Edelweiss Omnibus
Deer Lake (4)
Edelweiss is excited to give you a look at what's new to the platform — from faster site experiences and richer data access to the latest on Omnibus, our bookstore operating system that pairs POS systems like Square with essential bookselling tools. With Omnibus, everyday bookstore workflows like inventory management, direct ordering, and Edelweiss catalogs and analytics come together in a single place. Join us to see how we're building a smoother, more efficient experience for booksellers.
Smart Merchandising and Sidelines That Sell
Wayzata Bay (8)
Educators: Harriett Logan, Loganberry Books; Jenna Bowman, Morgenstern Books; Elizabeth Foster, Inkwell Booksellers; Ginger McFarlin, Inkwell Booksellers; Chris Keil, Left Bank Books
Books may be the heart of your store, but thoughtfully curated sidelines can boost sales, strengthen your brand and enhance the customer experience. This session will explore best practices for merchandising books alongside gift items, games, stationery, apparel and other sidelines. Panelists will discuss product selection, inventory turns, trend forecasting, vendor sourcing, display strategies and how to create cohesive merchandising stories that drive discovery, returning customers and sales. Whether you're refining an established sidelines program or building one from scratch, you'll leave with practical ideas and proven approaches for making every square foot of your store work harder.
Building a Bookstore Budget Presented by the ABA
Spring Park Bay (8)
Educators: ABA Staff
Budgeting for your bookstore doesn’t have to be scary or intimidating! A budget with a sales forecast is a critical map for business, and knowing your numbers keeps you on track. This session – designed for both new and established stores – will explore how a well-structured budget for your bookstore can help you meet your business goals and ensure a sustainable business. We’ll explore the fundamentals of a bookstore budget and how ABACUS can help you plan and build targets. You’ll leave ready to use ABA’s Budgeting & Monitoring Workbook in your store!
Women Write about Art & Aging In the Nick of Time
Elk Lake (4)
Educators: Anthology editors Julie Landsman, Debra Stone, and Morgan Grayce Willow, with anthology contributors Chris Cinque, Teresa Ortiz, and Carolyn Holbrook
Does your store meet the needs of your community’s elders? Not just in terms of getting them the books that they want, but in terms of creating spaces for art to flourish, for diverse voices to be heard, for experiences to be acknowledged and learned from? Join the contributors to the anthology Nick of Time: Women Write about Art and Aging for an insightful panel on building inclusive, vibrant community hubs for aging readers. Representing a wide variety of generations, cultures, and art forms, panelists will share ideas about how literary and artistic third-spaces like bookstores can do more to engage older readers.
9:30 am - 11:20 am (this is a two hour session)
Bookstore Year Zero
St. Croix 1 (6)
Educators: Jen Allen, Fujii Associates; Melissa Posten, Simon & Schuster; Timothy Otte, Wild Rumpus, Terri LeBlanc, Swamp Fox Books
Thinking about opening a bookstore or navigating your first year in business? This extended, interactive session is designed for aspiring booksellers and new store owners who want practical advice from those who have recently been through it. We'll cover the fundamentals of launching and operating an independent bookstore, including financing, inventory management, staffing, events, marketing, community building, and avoiding common early mistakes. Bring your questions and leave with actionable ideas, helpful resources, and a clearer roadmap for building a sustainable indie bookstore.
10:30 am - 11:20 am
Building, Growing and Managing a Used Book Business
Deer Lake (4)
Educators: Zach Matelski, McLean & Eakin; Harriet Logan, Loganberry Books; Brian Cheli, Read a Book STL.
Whether you're looking to strengthen an existing used book section, add used inventory to your store, or launch a used-only bookstore, this session offers a deep dive into the art and business of used bookselling. Experienced booksellers will share their philosophies on used books, strategies for sourcing and purchasing inventory, methods for pricing and tracking stock and the decision-making process behind what earns valuable shelf space. Attendees will gain practical insights into creating a successful used book operation, along with opportunities to ask questions and learn from real-world experience."
Building Stronger Publisher & Bookseller Partnerships
Wayzata Bay (8)
Educators: Gary Lovely, Abraham Associates; Ruth Liebmann, Penguin Random House; Johanna Hynes, PGW / Two Rivers; James Crossley, Leviathan Bookstore, Dave Mallman, Norton
Great publisher bookseller relationships don't happen by accident. Whether you're a new bookseller learning how to work with sales reps or a seasoned store looking to strengthen publisher partnerships, this session offers a behind-the-scenes look at how publishers operate, why certain decisions are made and how to build more productive relationships. Through a panel discussion and moderated conversation, booksellers and publisher representatives will share best practices, answer common questions and have honest conversations about working together more effectively. Leave with a better understanding of your sales reps, practical strategies for collaboration and new ideas for building partnerships that benefit everyone.
Introducing Covered: Ingram’s Digital Review Copy and Catalog Site
Spring Park Bay (8)
Educators: Courtney Seitz, Ingram
Booksellers are always looking for standout titles to share with their customers. Join us for a look at Covered, Ingram’s new site designed to connect booksellers with digital review copies (DRCs) and title information direct from publishers. In this session, you’ll learn how Covered makes it easy for booksellers to evaluate new titles through DRCs and get a preview of a more powerful catalog, ordering, and discovery tool.
Genre Selling Discussion: Romance, Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Mystery
Elk Lake (4)
Educators: Tory Hall, Sower Books; Cori Theroux, The Green Dragon Bookshop; Lauren Cardick, Matchmaker Bookshop; Natasha Meyer, The Well Red Damsel;
Every genre has its own readers, trends and challenges. Join publisher representatives and booksellers for a practical conversation on growing your science fiction, fantasy, mystery, and romance sections. From discovering the next breakout author and staying current on new releases to merchandising, events and community building. This session will explore the strategies that help these categories thrive. Educators will also share programming ideas, common obstacles, creative solutions and ways to make the most of your publisher reps and industry resources. Whether you're refreshing a single section or looking to strengthen your genre programming across the store, you'll leave with new ideas and actionable takeaways to put into practice right away.
11:30 am - 12:20 pm
Selling Graphic Novels with Confidence
Deer Lake (4)
Educators: Ryvre Hardrick, Goblin Market; Mark Siegel, First Second; Sarah Phillips, Scholastic
Graphic novels continue to be one of the fastest growing sections in indie bookstores. But staying on top of the format can feel overwhelming. Whether you're building your section from the ground up or looking to strengthen an already successful department, this session will cover the tools, resources and strategies you need to sell graphic novels with confidence. Join Mark Siegel of First Second Books & 23rd Street Books, along with representatives from Scholastic and experienced booksellers, as they discuss what's trending, where to discover new titles, the publishers to know, how to use your sales reps as a resource and the series and creators that consistently connect with readers. You'll leave with practical ideas for curating, merchandising and growing one of your store's most dynamic sections.
Sound Investment: Maximizing the Libro.fm Revenue Stream
Wayzata Bay (8)
Educators: Kay Farmer
Independent bookstores operate on famously thin margins, where rising operational costs and fixed retail realities require creative, diversified revenue streams to survive and thrive. Join Kay Farmer from Libro.fm for an actionable, toolkit-focused session dedicated to transforming your Libro.fm sales into a sustainable, low-effort, high-efficiency revenue stream for your store. We'll explore field-tested strategies from stores that have successfully increased their Libro.fm revenue through creative in-store presence, author event tie-ins, and strategic promotional campaigns. Then we'll pull back the curtain on what's coming next, including ebooks and new features designed to enhance customer engagement both in-store and online. Whether you want to streamline your staff's handselling workflow or expand your digital offerings, this session provides the concrete tools and inspiration you need to boost your bottom line.
CANCELLED - Learning Lab: Design Strategies for Inclusive and Memorable Gatherings
WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE
Spring Park Bay (8)
Booksellers already know how to gather people: author events, book clubs, game nights, passports. This session is about the next layer — techniques that promote a sense of belonging and community, turning good events into something memorable.
Join Jenny Truax of Blanket Fort Gatherings for a hands-on, participatory session exploring what makes gatherings stick. We'll draw on fourth space theory and Priya Parker's research on the art of gathering well, digging into practical suggestions and frameworks. We'll also jump into the lab, sharing insights and workshopping ideas together. Come ready to both listen and share, and leave with a few fresh strategies you can take home.
Data-Driven Bookselling: Turning Numbers into Better Decisions
Elk Lake (4)
Educators: Gabriella Costa, Edelweiss; Dave Lucey, Edelweiss; Joe Chevalier, Yellow Dog Books; Sarah Krammen, Dragonfly Books
Your bookstore is already generating a wealth of valuable data, but are you using it? Learn how to turn information from your POS system, Edelweiss, Above the Treeline, ABACUS, sales reports and pre-order data and more into actionable insights that strengthen every aspect of your business. From understanding your best performing sections and inventory trends to identifying opportunities for growth. This session will demystify bookstore analytics and show you which reports matter most, how to find them and how to use them to make smarter business decisions. Whether you're new to bookselling or a seasoned owner, you'll leave with practical tools to help your store thrive.
Beyond Four Walls: Rethinking the Independent Bookstore
St. Croix 1 (6)
Educators: Barbara Cerda
Independent bookselling comes in more forms than ever before. From mobile bookstores, pop-up shops, and nonprofit models to micro stores, online booksellers, genre-specialty shops and other hybrid concepts, innovative booksellers are redefining what a bookstore can be. Join a panel of booksellers operating outside the traditional brick-and-mortar model as they discuss the unique opportunities, challenges and practical realities of running these businesses. Whether you're exploring a new bookselling venture, looking to expand beyond your current space, or simply curious about the evolving bookselling landscape, you'll leave with fresh ideas, real-world insights, and proven strategies for thinking beyond four walls.
12:30 PM - 1:20 PM
* All Hands Education Session
Books Through and Beyond Bars | Ballroom 3-4 (4)
Educators: Jennifer Bowen, Founding Artistic Director, Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop; Maria Carlos, Managing Editor, Lost Kite Editions; David Jansich, Editor, Lost Kite Editions
Please come learn about Lost Kite Editions, the first press jointly run by incarcerated and non-incarcerated writers and editors, launched by folks at the Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop. We'll explain why we formed it, how our model works, and what we hope it might do for literature, readers, and the world. We'll also share what we know about getting books into prisons. Q&A to follow.
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Rep Picks Lunch Mandatory and free for Booksellers. Reps will pitch their hottest forthcoming titles. Rep Picks Lunch will take place in three rooms. Check your badge for your room assignment.
9:30 AM - 10:20 AM
Edelweiss Omnibus
Deer Lake (4)
Edelweiss is excited to give you a look at what's new to the platform — from faster site experiences and richer data access to the latest on Omnibus, our bookstore operating system that pairs POS systems like Square with essential bookselling tools. With Omnibus, everyday bookstore workflows like inventory management, direct ordering, and Edelweiss catalogs and analytics come together in a single place. Join us to see how we're building a smoother, more efficient experience for booksellers.
Smart Merchandising and Sidelines That Sell
Wayzata Bay (8)
Educators: Harriett Logan, Loganberry Books; Jenna Bowman, Morgenstern Books; Elizabeth Foster, Inkwell Booksellers; Ginger McFarlin, Inkwell Booksellers; Chris Keil, Left Bank Books
Books may be the heart of your store, but thoughtfully curated sidelines can boost sales, strengthen your brand and enhance the customer experience. This session will explore best practices for merchandising books alongside gift items, games, stationery, apparel and other sidelines. Panelists will discuss product selection, inventory turns, trend forecasting, vendor sourcing, display strategies and how to create cohesive merchandising stories that drive discovery, returning customers and sales. Whether you're refining an established sidelines program or building one from scratch, you'll leave with practical ideas and proven approaches for making every square foot of your store work harder.
Building a Bookstore Budget Presented by the ABA
Spring Park Bay (8)
Educators: ABA Staff
Budgeting for your bookstore doesn’t have to be scary or intimidating! A budget with a sales forecast is a critical map for business, and knowing your numbers keeps you on track. This session – designed for both new and established stores – will explore how a well-structured budget for your bookstore can help you meet your business goals and ensure a sustainable business. We’ll explore the fundamentals of a bookstore budget and how ABACUS can help you plan and build targets. You’ll leave ready to use ABA’s Budgeting & Monitoring Workbook in your store!
Women Write about Art & Aging In the Nick of Time
Elk Lake (4)
Educators: Anthology editors Julie Landsman, Debra Stone, and Morgan Grayce Willow, with anthology contributors Chris Cinque, Teresa Ortiz, and Carolyn Holbrook
Does your store meet the needs of your community’s elders? Not just in terms of getting them the books that they want, but in terms of creating spaces for art to flourish, for diverse voices to be heard, for experiences to be acknowledged and learned from? Join the contributors to the anthology Nick of Time: Women Write about Art and Aging for an insightful panel on building inclusive, vibrant community hubs for aging readers. Representing a wide variety of generations, cultures, and art forms, panelists will share ideas about how literary and artistic third-spaces like bookstores can do more to engage older readers.
9:30 am - 11:20 am (this is a two hour session)
Bookstore Year Zero
St. Croix 1 (6)
Educators: Jen Allen, Fujii Associates; Melissa Posten, Simon & Schuster; Timothy Otte, Wild Rumpus, Terri LeBlanc, Swamp Fox Books
Thinking about opening a bookstore or navigating your first year in business? This extended, interactive session is designed for aspiring booksellers and new store owners who want practical advice from those who have recently been through it. We'll cover the fundamentals of launching and operating an independent bookstore, including financing, inventory management, staffing, events, marketing, community building, and avoiding common early mistakes. Bring your questions and leave with actionable ideas, helpful resources, and a clearer roadmap for building a sustainable indie bookstore.
10:30 am - 11:20 am
Building, Growing and Managing a Used Book Business
Deer Lake (4)
Educators: Zach Matelski, McLean & Eakin; Harriet Logan, Loganberry Books; Brian Cheli, Read a Book STL.
Whether you're looking to strengthen an existing used book section, add used inventory to your store, or launch a used-only bookstore, this session offers a deep dive into the art and business of used bookselling. Experienced booksellers will share their philosophies on used books, strategies for sourcing and purchasing inventory, methods for pricing and tracking stock and the decision-making process behind what earns valuable shelf space. Attendees will gain practical insights into creating a successful used book operation, along with opportunities to ask questions and learn from real-world experience."
Building Stronger Publisher & Bookseller Partnerships
Wayzata Bay (8)
Educators: Gary Lovely, Abraham Associates; Ruth Liebmann, Penguin Random House; Johanna Hynes, PGW / Two Rivers; James Crossley, Leviathan Bookstore, Dave Mallman, Norton
Great publisher bookseller relationships don't happen by accident. Whether you're a new bookseller learning how to work with sales reps or a seasoned store looking to strengthen publisher partnerships, this session offers a behind-the-scenes look at how publishers operate, why certain decisions are made and how to build more productive relationships. Through a panel discussion and moderated conversation, booksellers and publisher representatives will share best practices, answer common questions and have honest conversations about working together more effectively. Leave with a better understanding of your sales reps, practical strategies for collaboration and new ideas for building partnerships that benefit everyone.
Introducing Covered: Ingram’s Digital Review Copy and Catalog Site
Spring Park Bay (8)
Educators: Courtney Seitz, Ingram
Booksellers are always looking for standout titles to share with their customers. Join us for a look at Covered, Ingram’s new site designed to connect booksellers with digital review copies (DRCs) and title information direct from publishers. In this session, you’ll learn how Covered makes it easy for booksellers to evaluate new titles through DRCs and get a preview of a more powerful catalog, ordering, and discovery tool.
Genre Selling Discussion: Romance, Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Mystery
Elk Lake (4)
Educators: Tory Hall, Sower Books; Cori Theroux, The Green Dragon Bookshop; Lauren Cardick, Matchmaker Bookshop; Natasha Meyer, The Well Red Damsel;
Every genre has its own readers, trends and challenges. Join publisher representatives and booksellers for a practical conversation on growing your science fiction, fantasy, mystery, and romance sections. From discovering the next breakout author and staying current on new releases to merchandising, events and community building. This session will explore the strategies that help these categories thrive. Educators will also share programming ideas, common obstacles, creative solutions and ways to make the most of your publisher reps and industry resources. Whether you're refreshing a single section or looking to strengthen your genre programming across the store, you'll leave with new ideas and actionable takeaways to put into practice right away.
11:30 am - 12:20 pm
Selling Graphic Novels with Confidence
Deer Lake (4)
Educators: Ryvre Hardrick, Goblin Market; Mark Siegel, First Second; Sarah Phillips, Scholastic
Graphic novels continue to be one of the fastest growing sections in indie bookstores. But staying on top of the format can feel overwhelming. Whether you're building your section from the ground up or looking to strengthen an already successful department, this session will cover the tools, resources and strategies you need to sell graphic novels with confidence. Join Mark Siegel of First Second Books & 23rd Street Books, along with representatives from Scholastic and experienced booksellers, as they discuss what's trending, where to discover new titles, the publishers to know, how to use your sales reps as a resource and the series and creators that consistently connect with readers. You'll leave with practical ideas for curating, merchandising and growing one of your store's most dynamic sections.
Sound Investment: Maximizing the Libro.fm Revenue Stream
Wayzata Bay (8)
Educators: Kay Farmer
Independent bookstores operate on famously thin margins, where rising operational costs and fixed retail realities require creative, diversified revenue streams to survive and thrive. Join Kay Farmer from Libro.fm for an actionable, toolkit-focused session dedicated to transforming your Libro.fm sales into a sustainable, low-effort, high-efficiency revenue stream for your store. We'll explore field-tested strategies from stores that have successfully increased their Libro.fm revenue through creative in-store presence, author event tie-ins, and strategic promotional campaigns. Then we'll pull back the curtain on what's coming next, including ebooks and new features designed to enhance customer engagement both in-store and online. Whether you want to streamline your staff's handselling workflow or expand your digital offerings, this session provides the concrete tools and inspiration you need to boost your bottom line.
CANCELLED - Learning Lab: Design Strategies for Inclusive and Memorable Gatherings
WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE
Spring Park Bay (8)
Booksellers already know how to gather people: author events, book clubs, game nights, passports. This session is about the next layer — techniques that promote a sense of belonging and community, turning good events into something memorable.
Join Jenny Truax of Blanket Fort Gatherings for a hands-on, participatory session exploring what makes gatherings stick. We'll draw on fourth space theory and Priya Parker's research on the art of gathering well, digging into practical suggestions and frameworks. We'll also jump into the lab, sharing insights and workshopping ideas together. Come ready to both listen and share, and leave with a few fresh strategies you can take home.
Data-Driven Bookselling: Turning Numbers into Better Decisions
Elk Lake (4)
Educators: Gabriella Costa, Edelweiss; Dave Lucey, Edelweiss; Joe Chevalier, Yellow Dog Books; Sarah Krammen, Dragonfly Books
Your bookstore is already generating a wealth of valuable data, but are you using it? Learn how to turn information from your POS system, Edelweiss, Above the Treeline, ABACUS, sales reports and pre-order data and more into actionable insights that strengthen every aspect of your business. From understanding your best performing sections and inventory trends to identifying opportunities for growth. This session will demystify bookstore analytics and show you which reports matter most, how to find them and how to use them to make smarter business decisions. Whether you're new to bookselling or a seasoned owner, you'll leave with practical tools to help your store thrive.
Beyond Four Walls: Rethinking the Independent Bookstore
St. Croix 1 (6)
Educators: Barbara Cerda
Independent bookselling comes in more forms than ever before. From mobile bookstores, pop-up shops, and nonprofit models to micro stores, online booksellers, genre-specialty shops and other hybrid concepts, innovative booksellers are redefining what a bookstore can be. Join a panel of booksellers operating outside the traditional brick-and-mortar model as they discuss the unique opportunities, challenges and practical realities of running these businesses. Whether you're exploring a new bookselling venture, looking to expand beyond your current space, or simply curious about the evolving bookselling landscape, you'll leave with fresh ideas, real-world insights, and proven strategies for thinking beyond four walls.
12:30 PM - 1:20 PM
* All Hands Education Session
Books Through and Beyond Bars | Ballroom 3-4 (4)
Educators: Jennifer Bowen, Founding Artistic Director, Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop; Maria Carlos, Managing Editor, Lost Kite Editions; David Jansich, Editor, Lost Kite Editions
Please come learn about Lost Kite Editions, the first press jointly run by incarcerated and non-incarcerated writers and editors, launched by folks at the Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop. We'll explain why we formed it, how our model works, and what we hope it might do for literature, readers, and the world. We'll also share what we know about getting books into prisons. Q&A to follow.
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Rep Picks Lunch Mandatory and free for Booksellers. Reps will pitch their hottest forthcoming titles. Rep Picks Lunch will take place in three rooms. Check your badge for your room assignment.
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Room: St. Croix I (6)
1. Penguin Random House, Uriel Perez 2. Sourcebooks, Suzanne Marks 3. Fujii Associates, Andy Holcomb 4. Consortium, Jayashree Anderson 5. W.W. Norton & Co, Dave Mallman 6. Hachette Book Group, Kelly O’Sullivan 7. Indigo Maiden, Heather MacMillan 8. Princeton University Press, Shaun Manning 9. The Collective Book Studio, Angela Engel 10. Abraham Associates, Gary Lovely |
Room: Lafayette / Excelsior (8)
1. Penguin Random House, Jason Gobble 2. Abrams, Morgan Hillman 3. PGW / Two Rivers, Betty Redmond 4. Wayne State University Press, Traci Cothran 5. Minnesota Historical Society Press, Riley Jay Davis 6. Andrews McMeel Publishing 7. Independent Publishers Group, IPG, Anna Fisher 8. Scholastic 9. University of Minnesota Press, Matt Smiley 10. Simon & Schuster, Melissa Posten |
Room: Wayzata / Gray's Bay (8)
1. Penguin Random House, Erin Taylor 2. Abraham Associates, Alice Mesjak 3. HarperCollins, Giselle Durand 4. PGW / Two Rivers, Johanna Hynes 5. Macmillan, Tom Leigh 6. Other Press , Mona Bismuth / Europa Editions, Kristi Bontrager 7. Little Creek Press 8. Simon & Schuster, Leah Hays 9. Pushkin Press, David Goldberg 10. Taco Cat Books, Jenna Schroeder |
2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Trade Show Floor Open | Grand Portage Ballroom 1 & 2 (4)
Visit a variety of exhibitors and check-out the author signings!
Check out our list attending exhibitors!
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Evening Author Reception | Grand Portage Ballroom 3 & 4 (4)
A free event for all attendees featuring five authors and engaging emcee. Followed by signings.
Trade Show Floor Open | Grand Portage Ballroom 1 & 2 (4)
Visit a variety of exhibitors and check-out the author signings!
Check out our list attending exhibitors!
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Evening Author Reception | Grand Portage Ballroom 3 & 4 (4)
A free event for all attendees featuring five authors and engaging emcee. Followed by signings.
9:30 PM - 11:30 PM
Quiz Bowl | St. Croix I (6)
Sponsored by Booksnarx!
Engage with formidable literary trivia at our annual competition. Hop onto a team of up to six at the event or prepare your perfect team ahead of time. All are invited! No registration necessary.
Quiz Bowl | St. Croix I (6)
Sponsored by Booksnarx!
Engage with formidable literary trivia at our annual competition. Hop onto a team of up to six at the event or prepare your perfect team ahead of time. All are invited! No registration necessary.
Friday, October 9
7:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Registration Desk (4) Check-in, grab your tote bag, get your badge!
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Friends of Bill | Crystal Lake (8)
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
GLIBA Membership Meeting | Wayzata / Gray's Bay (8)
Open to all GLIBA members!
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
MIBA Membership Meeting | Lafayette / Excelsior (8)
Open to all MIBA members!
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Marquee Author Brunch | Grand Portage Ballroom 3 & 4 (4)
A ticketed event featuring marquee authors in conversation about their work, followed by signings.
Registration Desk (4) Check-in, grab your tote bag, get your badge!
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Friends of Bill | Crystal Lake (8)
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
GLIBA Membership Meeting | Wayzata / Gray's Bay (8)
Open to all GLIBA members!
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
MIBA Membership Meeting | Lafayette / Excelsior (8)
Open to all MIBA members!
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Marquee Author Brunch | Grand Portage Ballroom 3 & 4 (4)
A ticketed event featuring marquee authors in conversation about their work, followed by signings.
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Trade Show Floor Open | Grand Portage Ballroom 1 & 2 (4)
Visit a variety of exhibitors and check-out the author signings!
Check out our list attending exhibitors!
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Trade Show Floor Open | Grand Portage Ballroom 1 & 2 (4)
BINC Auction!
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Grand Portage Ballroom 3 & 4 (4)
Authors' Afternoon Tea
Sponsored by Scholastic!
This ticketed event is a fun, intimate, tradition (also known as The Moveable Feast)! Forty authors visit tables of booksellers to introduce their new titles.
Trade Show Floor Open | Grand Portage Ballroom 1 & 2 (4)
Visit a variety of exhibitors and check-out the author signings!
Check out our list attending exhibitors!
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Trade Show Floor Open | Grand Portage Ballroom 1 & 2 (4)
BINC Auction!
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Grand Portage Ballroom 3 & 4 (4)
Authors' Afternoon Tea
Sponsored by Scholastic!
This ticketed event is a fun, intimate, tradition (also known as The Moveable Feast)! Forty authors visit tables of booksellers to introduce their new titles.
