Chain bookstores have become a staple in today’s society. Most of us love the idea of browsing the shelves of new books, then relaxing in the coffee shop for a warm (or iced) drink and reading the book of our choice. Bookstores have become a great pasttime for avid readers, book groups, and college students.
Most of us find ourselves drawn to the bigger chains, like Barnes & Noble and Borders. But in the college town of Manhattan, KS, the main store that readers have available to them is Hastings, a national chain that offers much of what its competitors do, but also offers a few extras that the less financially fortunate (like college students) can really take advantage of.
Hastings has been around since 1968 and currently has 153 stores in the United States as well as an e-commerce web site for their customers. While the site is a great tool, it’s the bookstore that makes for the experience. Here are five reasons to check this store out.
1. Books are only the beginning – Like their counterparts, Hastings offers everything in the way of entertainment. Besides their large book selection, you can also shop for DVDs and CDs, as well as gift items and electronic and computer accessories. For the more spiritual reader, Hastings has an extensive Christian section of fiction and non-fiction. Not looking to buy anything? Hastings has DVD rentals with rates comparable to other rental chains and, in many cases, much more affordable.
2. Buying used means saving money – One thing that makes Hastings stand out from the other chains is that they offer used books at a reduced rate. The used books are still in good condition, and can cost up to half of the original cover price of that book. In a college town where saving money means alot, discounted books are a good draw for readers. While not every book has a discount counterpart, many do, and those that don’t might just need a little time before they’re offered for a discount as well.
3. Selling used means making money – For the poor college student or anyone struggling with money, Hastings offers a book buy back program that can earn you a few extra dollars here and there. While there are several stipulations on what Hastings will and won’t take back, it never hurts to try when you’re in a money pinch or just need to get rid of some books that are sitting around. If you decide to go with the store credit option, you can earn back up to 50% more on your used books, cds, or DVDs, and the store credit can be used for both regular merchandise and food purchases in the cafe.
4. The cafe is a great place to hang out – In the tradition of book store cafes, Hastings offers their own version in The Hard Back Cafe, a cozy area to sit and read or chat with friends. Comfortable furniture offers a nice ambience, while a long wall counter offers space for laptop work. A television plays for those looking to catch up on the news or the latest sporting event. Snacks are offered, as well as a full menu of coffee beverages and fruit smoothies, all of which taste great and are competitively priced against other book stores. The Hastings in Manhattan is also opening themselves up to local talent, so local groups can try out for upcoming entertainment nights by checking out the locally posted flyer in the cafe. (It has come to my attention that not all Hastings have this cafe. If you’re lucky enough to have one in your area, I definitely suggest checking it out).
5. There’s always a sale going on – I’m a bargain shopper from way back, so when I see a sale, I tend to get excited, even more so if it’s a sale on books. Hastings never fails to have one or more clearance racks spread throughout the store if not an all out sale. For example, they’re currently holding a 99 cent sale on hundreds of books. While you’re not likely to find any of the latest bestsellers at such deep discounts, true book lovers will have a great time perusing the shelves for rare treasures at such great prices. And for the book collector, a few dollars is a steal for a novel to add to their collection.
For residents of Manhattan, KS, Hastings offers a great bookstore experience that won’t completely break the budget. For those of you in other parts of the country that have access to this great bookstore, check it out. You may find it a great addition to your book store repertoire.
