Milkweed Books is seeking a part-time bookseller to support fall events and winter holiday season. We are an independent bookstore operated by the nonprofit publisher Milkweed Editions, and our brick-and-mortar store is located in Open Book. Curation in our store prioritizes originality, marginalized voices, and books exploring our relationship to place and the more-than-human world. We also act as a resource for the neighborhood growing around us—a site of connection, community, and exploration.
We are looking for a temporary part-time bookseller to staff the store, support warehouse mailings, and staff events, totaling about 12-15 hours per week. This position will also include the possibility of additional hours as needed to meet the demands of the holiday season. This role will be expected to be available Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, day or evening hours, for the months of September-December, 2024. Compensation is $17/hour.
Our ideal applicant has:
- Retail and/or hospitality experience, preferably in bookselling or event coordination
- Knowledge of and enthusiasm for poetry, fiction, and nonfiction in alignment with the mission of Milkweed Editions, both in the current publishing landscape at large and within the Twin Cities literary community
- An independent, problem-solving, go-getter attitude
- Skills in handselling, providing and writing recommendations, and delivering excellent customer service
- Strong communication and organizational skills, and an adeptness in working both cooperatively and independently
- An eagerness to assist in delivering exceptional events experiences for readers and authors
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Operating a cash register, making change, and processing sales
- Selling books at author events and assisting with the setup/teardown of events
- Author and artist care
- Learning/using point of sales and inventory management
- Lifting/moving boxes or furniture weighing up to 50 lbs.
- Organizing and alphabetizing stock
- Serving as a public-facing representative of Milkweed Editions
To apply, please submit a resume and a list of three titles that represent what you love to read, with 2-3 lines per book about why you chose each one, and any other details you would like us to know about you. No cover letter necessary. Materials should be sent through the Milkweed Editions Submittable page. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, early submission is strongly encouraged. This position has an expected start date the week of September 9, 2024.
This position will report to the Bookstore Manager.
It is the policy of Milkweed Editions to afford equal employment opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, status as a disabled veteran, status with regard to public assistance, or any other protected class recognized by applicable laws.