SOG-UK-L Archives

Archiver > SOG-UK > 2003-02 > 1046368907-01


From: "La Greenall" <>
Subject: RE: [SoG] The Society Bookshop
Date: Thu, 27 Feb 2003 18:03:17 -0000
In-Reply-To: <3.0.1.32.20030227111638.00e32a94@POP3.demon.co.uk>


Many thanks for your speedy and detailed response to this Geoff. Of course
you must have been expecting the backlash ut nonetheless it is very
reassuring to be given such a concise and balanced report so quickly.

I suppose this is really just another sign of the changing face of
genealogy - perhaps the last 'wave' of 'converts' now have their (our)
libraries well-stocked, and another wave hasn't hit the beaches since.

If so, then we need to adjust to the market. It is a great relief to hear
that SoG titles will still be available 'over the counter' and via a
'Members' Orderline' but I cannot help feeling that the Society's wealth of
self-published material and professional reputation in the field should be
developed more than they have been so far - perhaps by *actively*
encouraging submission of research material from the membership, or by
building upon the members' natural enthusiasm with courses leading to
professional recognition, leading posssibly to a greater role for the
Society as a professional consultancy. This way we might just 'ride with the
wave' and stay on top of it all the way. There are too many 'Tescos' selling
jeans and DVD players, and too few 'Waitroses' concentrating on their core
market.

Much as I deeply regret this latest move, I have to say that I fully support
it, given the information currently available, which seems to be one of
those rare cases where quality, or preservation, has been chosen over
quantity, or popularity of opinion.

What will be done with the shop-space in the foreseeable future? I suppose
being down an alley makes it not too suitable for subletting? If a suitable
tenant could be found, the coffers should benefit rather nicely! I
personally would like to see the space filled with more bookshelves!

Lawrence

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