FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY BOOKSTORE CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY
Interview with Jennifer Anderson '97, MBA '02, Vice President of Marketing and Communications
What would you say makes the Fairfield University Bookstore unique in the Fairfield Community?
The University Bookstore serves a wide range of audiences through in-person events, a variety of merchandise and a large selection of books and literature. Children and adult authors frequent the bookstore to host a variety of author talks events. The Bookstore offers a multi-faceted shopping experience in its prime downtown space, and features best sellers, general interest titles, faculty publications, and a robust children’s section, Starbucks, Apple accessories and products, gifts, clothing, and much more!
What does almost 10 years of serving both Fairfield University, and the Town of Fairfield community mean to you and why?
The Bookstore is in the heart of Fairfield, located in a convenient area and offers versatile space for our community members. We are currently expanding our service offerings and are excited to unfold the next phase in the evolution of what we will bring to the community.
How did the Fairfield University Bookstore get to where it is today? Were there any difficult or triumphant moments in its history?
It was November 2011 when the ribbon cutting took place for the Fairfield University Bookstore. Since its opening, the Bookstore has hosted book signings for authors such as Julie Andrews, Martha Stewart, Jan Brett, Mike Lupica and Dave Pilkey, as well as many other events drawing in large community crowds. Many Fairfield University faculty members have also hosted book signings and talks with the community throughout the past 10 years. We look forward to continuing to bring cultural offerings and programming, as well as expanded general merchandise to the community.
How does the University and the Bookstore engage with the Town of Fairfield as a community?
Fairfield University partners with the Town of Fairfield and the Chamber of Commerce to support many of the community events that happen throughout our town like sidewalk sales, the annual Shop and Stroll, Restaurant Week, Santa’s Arrival, and more. We also work closely with the library and local public schools to support initiatives like One-book, One-Town.
And what kind of customers does the Bookstore attract beyond University students?
The Bookstore serves a wide range of local residents of all ages. Middle and high school students enjoy the studying space, virtually everyone enjoys the Starbucks, young children have the opportunity to engage with authors, arts and craft events, and explore the large children’s section. Many University visitors will frequent the Bookstore, and it serves as a hub for gifts, whether that is merchandise, literature, daily necessities or gift-cards.
With the holidays just around the corner, is there anything special or festive we can expect from the Bookstore?
This November 13, a 10-Year Anniversary Celebration is planned. Guest authors, crafts, balloon animal art, light refreshments, cheerleaders, members of Fairfield University’s athletic teams, and Lucas the Stag will commemorate the milestone. In addition to honoring 10 years of memories, the Bookstore is receiving an interior design refresh and will be offering 25 percent off all Legacy F-Stag Logo retail items throughout the month of November. Community members are invited to join the day’s activities on Saturday, November 13. Also, during the 9th annual Fairfield Shop and Stroll on Thursday, December 9, the Bookstore will stay open late and offer an assortment of seasonal refreshments and A Capella groups, carolers, and musicians.
What does the future look like for the Fairfield University Bookstore? Future plans?
We have really exciting plans! The Fairfield University Downtown Bookstore will be undergoing a major renovation in addition to expanded retail options and a new community section geared towards home décor and gifting. Look for an updated space and new services in the coming months.
