EP #104 Books And Community In Stafford

A bustling bookstore in 2026 says a lot about what people still crave: a place to slow down, explore, and feel part of something bigger. That’s the heartbeat of our conversation with Mike Burton, district manager at Books-A-Million, as we celebrate the new Stafford location and dig into how a 1917 newsstand grew into more than 200 stores across 32 states. Mike takes us beyond the shelves to show how a modern bookstore thrives on curation, community partnerships, and the simple pleasure of holding a story in your hands.We trace Mike’s unlikely path from engineering student to retail leader and the lessons he’s carried across three decades: build teams with care, remove friction for customers, and design stores that invite discovery. He opens the doors to BAM’s community engine—twice-yearly book and toy drives, Coffee for the Troops donations, school partnerships, and author events that turn shopping into civic life. Along the way, we tackle the biggest myth in the industry: that brick-and-mortar bookstores are fading. Mike’s take is clear and grounded in experience—foot traffic is strong, nostalgia is powerful, and growth is real, even as digital convenience remains part of the mix.Curious what’s inside the Stafford store? Think broad and vibrant. Manga that flies off the shelves, a robust Faith Point section, toys and games for every age, and pop culture tie-ins that extend beloved series from page to apparel and collectibles. Whether you come for a latte and a quiet corner or for staff picks that hit the mark, the store aims to be a welcoming third place for readers, families, and fandoms alike.If you’re ready to rediscover the joy of browsing, press play, then swing by Books-A-Million in Stafford or visit booksamillion.com to explore more. Like what you hear? Follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more neighbors find us.Mike BurtonBooks-A-Millionbooksamillion.com1240 Stafford Market Place, Suite 101 Stafford, VA 22556