Book Dispensary

06/18/09

Not what it could be

by harmon57

Was disappointed by this bookseller. Have been a long-time customer of Ed's Editions; the Book Dispensary doesn't compare. I've been to the location in the Boozer mall three times, and each time I'm greeting by a completely different staff. They tend to be helpful, but never seem to know much about the stock or book collecting in general. I was also quoted an unreasonably high price for ordering an out-of-print book. I overheard another customer, presumably a regular, say that the owner (who wasn't in) has some mental problems. By contrast, Ed's Editions in Columbia is well-organized and stocked, with knowledgeable staff and reasonable prices. Ed is frequently there himself and is active in the local collecting community. On the plus side, the Book Dispensary had many romance paperbacks and the customers seemed happy getting their Harlequin fix.

• Pros: Lots of paperbacks
• Cons: Staff turnover, lack of knowledge, overpriced collectibles