DEAR ABBY: I have read your column for years but have never written. However, I felt compelled to do so after reading the letter from Donna R. Berryman, stating: "Bookstores are just what the name implies -- stores."
Abby, my husband and I own a bookstore. We do research and place special orders for our customers as well as provide many other services. We have a terrific staff consisting of teachers, math and science majors, and other college students.
Our store works hand-in-hand with a local library, and we have donated books to it as well as sent customers their way. In return, they refer people to our bookstore.
I ask that Ms. Berryman not pass judgment on bookstores. I also invite her to visit ours -- we welcome the opportunity to show her how we compare with a library. I think she would be impressed. -- SUZANNE E. LAYFIELD, LITTLE PROFESSOR BOOK CENTER, MC KINNEY, TEXAS
DEAR SUZANNE: It sounds as though you have a wonderful bookstore. Many people find it helpful to use both bookstores and libraries for their needs. Over the last 10 years, bookstores have become increasingly diverse, dynamic and customer service-oriented. However for those who cannot afford to buy books, or need help researching what they need, the library is an invaluable resource.