Bookseller - Operations Assistant
Job Type: Part-Time Hourly ($12-$15) an hour, no more than 20 hours a week)
Reports To: Store Owner / Senior Bookseller
About Us:
The Brown Dog Bookshop is a cozy, independent bookstore dedicated to fostering a love of reading and supporting our local community. We specialize in a carefully curated selection of books across genres, host regular bookish events, and pride ourselves on offering a warm, personalized experience for every customer who walks through our doors.
Position Summary:
We’re looking for a friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate bookseller to join our small team. As a bookseller, you’ll be the face of the store—helping customers discover great reads, keeping the store tidy and inviting, and contributing to the overall spirit and success of our bookstore. As an operations assistant, you will have the opportunity to participate in all aspects of running an independent bookstore including marketing, inventory, planning and operations.
Key Responsibilities:
Greet and assist customers with book recommendations, special orders, and general inquiries
Operate the point-of-sale system, handle transactions, and maintain accurate cash handling procedures
Receive, unpack, and shelve new inventory
Keep the store organized, clean, and well-stocked
Assist with orders, returns, requesting arcs and managing information
Maintain knowledge of current book trends, new releases, and store inventory
Assist with in-store displays, signage, and merchandising
Lead at least one book club a month
Support events such as author readings and community gatherings
Handle customer orders, returns, and phone/email inquiries in a timely, courteous manner
Contribute ideas and enthusiasm to improve the customer experience and store operations
Qualifications:
Interest in learning about and participating in all aspects of an independent bookshop business
Passion for selling books and reading across a variety of genres
Enthusiasm for dogs
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Customer service experience preferred (especially retail or bookstore experience)
Ability to work independently and as part of a small, collaborative team
Comfortable with basic computer tasks and POS systems
Flexible availability, including evenings and weekends
Ability to lift boxes, stand for extended periods, go up and down stairs and handle routine physical tasks
Bonus Points:
Familiarity with indie publishing or small presses
Interest in hosting or coordinating book-related events
Local community ties or knowledge of the area’s literary scene
Experience with managing children’s events and gatherings
Creative skills in writing, design, or social media
Why Join Us?
Working at The Brown Dog Bookshop isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to be part of a space that values stories, connection, and curiosity. If you’re someone who loves books and wants to help others find the perfect one, we’d love to meet you.