Book Learnin'
We could all learn from this bookseller's environmental and philanthropic ideals.
Vital Stats: Sharon Anderson
Wright, 43, president and CEO of Half Price Books Inc.
Company: Largest
independently owned used book company in the country, with 77
stores in 11 states
2002 Sales Projections: $110
million
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Peace, Love and Books:
"My mother, Patricia Anderson, and her boyfriend, Ken Gjemre,
[who've passed away,] were both in with the peace and
environmental movements. In 1972, they got the idea to sell all
these [used] books and not have them end up in landfills."
Continuing the Legacy:
"We donate hundreds of thousands of books a year to nonprofit
organizations to help with literacy. We recycle what we can at the
store and put the money in our community service fund, which also
aids literacy. Employees are encouraged to get involved with
philanthropic activities."
"The motto when
we started was we'd buy everything printed or recorded, except
yesterday's paper."
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Workplace Romance: "I
met my husband, Ken [Wright], when he started working at the store.
His first job was to supervise and build our new main location. He
was a great worker and looked pretty darn good in a
toolbelt."
Small Salary, Big Rewards:
"It takes a lot of used books to make any money in this
business. We have great benefits and a relaxed work environment. I
don't think I work much harder than the other employees, so
I'd feel guilty if I took more money."
Reaching the Big 3-0:
"We'll probably open five or six stores next year, and
renovate and expand some of our existing stores. For our 30th
anniversary, we'll be doing the same as we've always done,
slow and steady."
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