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The Bookmark Seeks a Manager

Updated: Jun 29, 2022


The Bookmark is the used bookstore operated by the Friends of the Oakland Public Library. Phyllis Couillard has worked at the store since 2009 - first as a volunteer, as a co-manager in 2015, and became the bookstore’s full-time manager in 2019. After years of leadership, Phyllis is ready for her next adventure. We are grateful for Phyllis's years of service, commitment, and dedication to The Bookmark. We thank Phyllis and wish her all the best!



We have begun a search for Phyllis's replacement and we need your help! Please review the details of the position below and share with anyone you know who might be a good fit and/or interested in this role. Feel free to email inquiries to jobs@fopl.org.


Position Basics

This is a part-time managerial role. 24 hours/week that includes 1 weekend day, otherwise flexible. The Manager will work at The Bookmark Bookstore, 721 Washington Street, Oakland, CA. This is a non-exempt position; salary DOE.


Position Overview

The Bookmark Manager is responsible for driving sales of 100% donated books and media. We are searching for a manager who has knowledge of retail bookstore operating procedures, inventory management, pricing strategies, great communication skills, and basic retail accounting. In addition, the manager should also have the ability to recruit, motivate, and lead a diverse all-volunteer staff of 40-50 individuals. The self-directed position reports to the Board of Directors of The Friends of the Oakland Public Library.


Key Responsibilities

  • Manage daily operations for a non-profit used bookstore

  • Engage and inspire a hearty volunteer staff; includes training, scheduling, and clear communications with the volunteers

  • Manage incoming donations and re-donations

  • Develop and implement retail marketing strategies

  • Develop pricing strategies for in-store and online merchandise to maximize sales:

o Work with antiquarian book dealers and other specialty dealers to coordinate

consignment sales

o Identify and work with bulk buyers to increase sales

o Optimize the value of prime book inventory by maintaining a healthy online sales

presence

• Work closely with the Friends of the OPL board on sales reporting, special events, and day to day operations

• Keep the store looking clean, organized, and optimized for a great shopping experience

• Identify and comply with health and safety requirements for the store

Required Skills & Proficiencies

  • Retail sales and management experience; bookstore retail management experience preferred

  • Basic accounting skills including, accurate cash handling and security of deposits

  • Ability to manage and motivate a volunteer staff; experience leading a volunteer staff would be great!

  • Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)

  • Strong customer service focus, enjoys working with the public

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Willingness to work one day each weekend (schedule is flexible with one weekend day)

  • Ability to lift and transport merchandise up to 40 pounds

Please send resumés and/or inquiries to: jobs@fopl.org

**Please do not contact the store about this position.**

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