ABA Values

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Our Bookstores. We are passionate about the important role bookstores play in sharing stories and making books accessible, as well as the critical role they play in communities and in society. We believe in books. We believe in stories. And we believe in bookstores. We believe in the future of independent bookstores and we are dedicated to ensuring their success. We take our role and responsibility as the fulcrum of the bookselling community very seriously.

Our Staff. We are a People-First organization that recognizes that everyone who works at ABA contributes to ABA’s success. We value our team members and their unique contributions, we strive to listen to one another, work collaboratively, be accountable, and show each other appreciation. We want ABA staff to feel supported, respected, challenged, and able to do their jobs without interference or obstacles, and to experience equitable treatment among and between all levels of the organization.

Integrity. Ethical, Transparent, and Legal: These three values are the foundation of everything we do. From equitable policies and fair-minded and transparent management practices to being accountable, being able to acknowledge mistakes, and being able to give and accept apologies, we demonstrate integrity in all that we do.

A Positive Work Environment. We demonstrate Empathy, Compassion, Kindness, and Respect for one another in everything we do. We practice open communication. We encourage each other. We remember that every day is a new day to be better, to do better, to grow, and to help one another.

A Growth Mindset. We are interested in multiple viewpoints and strive to be open to new ideas and innovation. We strive to be open to and ready to facilitate difficult discussions. We strive to be flexible and open to change. We are committed to education and learning. We strive to approach feedback in a constructive way, with growth and development in mind. To this end, we also strive for an environment where everyone can feel free to share their thoughts and ideas and have their opinions valued.

Equity & Access. ABA is committed to equity and access in our organization and in the book industry. We value and believe that a more equitable and accessible industry helps us all better support and reflect the readers and communities we all support. We believe that listening to many different perspectives and empowering and supporting all Peoples strengthens our community, and enriches everyone’s experience. 

Community. We believe in supporting, serving, and participating in the concentric circles of community in our industry: booksellers, bookstores, authors, publishers, and readers. We also believe that all independent businesses add value to their communities and we support and partner with independent and local businesses for our conferences and other work whenever possible.

Social Responsibility. ABA strives to be socially responsible in our business practices, from the way we invest our endowment to the equity, access, and sustainability we consider when planning our conferences. 

Customer Service. ABA is dedicated to excellent customer service. We strive to create positive, respectful relationships with our members, partners, and the public.

About ABA

American Booksellers Association is a national trade association that supports and advocates for the success of independent bookstores. We provide members with education, networking opportunities, advocacy, resources, and technology. In turn our members support local schools through book fairs, donations and author visits; promote literacy; provide inclusive community centers; connect readers and books; add character to neighborhoods; champion and center diverse and new voices; and contribute to the local economy. We feel honored to support them in their work.

Contact

PRESS INQUIRIES: [email protected]

INDIECOMMERCE: [email protected]

ALL OTHER INQUIRIES: [email protected]

 

 

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