Navigating the Pandemic: Powell’s Books Experience

This chapter explores the challenges faced by Powell's Books during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, detailing their initial response and the hard decisions made regarding employee layoffs and operational changes. As in-store sales plummeted, the bookstore adapted by boosting their e-commerce presence and eventually redefined their shopping experience with new safety measures. The discussion also highlights the importance of community engagement and the transition to virtual events while resisting the convenience of larger online retailers.