CBA Canada breaks down barriers, builds bridges

Marg Buchanan
Quebec Correspondent
quebec@christianweek.org

LONDON, ON-Take 142 cash-strapped bookstore owners, 30 exhibitors vying for their attention, a half dozen big name American authors enjoying the limelight, a half dozen little known Canadian authors trying to be seen and a few musicians to spice it up, mix together, and let stand in a convention centre for three days.

A recipe for discouragement? Competition? Jealousy? Hardly.

The Christian Booksellers Association of Canada (CBA) held two three-day conventions in August with the theme "Breaking the Barriers"-one in Edmonton, Alberta, and the other in London, Ontario. The feedback from organizers, exhibitors, retailers and authors indicates that this particular blend of people was a feast.

The conventions were both launched with an industry forum, designed to discuss the current state of the Christian book industry in Canada and share ideas regarding how to adapt to new challenges. Bookstores are facing competition from large secular chains that now carry Christian books at discount prices, says to Marlene Coghlin, CBA executive director.

"It’s not all doom and gloom," she says. "The attitude is positive. Our stores are learning to identify their unique strengths: the personal approach, the availability of classics, the focus on ministry."

Another highlight of the convention for many booksellers, says Coghlin, is the opportunity to meet authors in person. "They appreciate hearing the author’s heart."

Several well-known authors spoke at the event and others did booksignings.

Fred Stoeker, author of the "Every Man’s Battle" series, was the keynote speaker in Edmonton. Mark Sanborn, author of The Fred Factor and Ruth Graham, author of In Every Pew Sits a Broken Heart spoke in London.

Deborah Bedford, author of If I Had You (Edmonton) and Heather Gemmen, author of Startling Beauty (London) led the devotional breakfasts.

Canadian authors Nancy Lindquist, David Kitz, Keith Clemons, Marg Buchanan, Sheila Wray Gregoire and Denyse O’Leary signed books at The Word Guild booth in London. "People were happy to see us there and they do want to know who the Canadian authors are," says Lindquist.

"Several bookstores are now talking about doing a Canadian section," adds Coghlin.

Authors promoted their books and met with industry specialists to discuss trends and market niches.

Canadian writer and Word Guild member Denise Rumble summarizes her feelings about the event this way: "Here was a huge room filled with our favourite things-books-and people who love books who are Christian. A little bit of heaven on earth!"

Exhibitor Rick Tocquigny, president of Lawson Falle Publishing, says it is the contact with store owners that brings him back to the CBA tradeshow every year. "Meeting new retailers and our existing customers gives us the opportunity to share our gratitude. We love our customers and it’s great to show that appreciation in person."

Several awards were given out at the banquets, including the "Store of the Year" which is selected by suppliers and given for excellence in Christian retailing. This year’s winners were Dove Christian Supply in Lethbridge, Alberta, and The Treasure House Christian Supplies in Newmarket, Ontario.

The CBA celebrates its 35th anniversary next year. The

annual trade show is a national event August 26-31 in Ottawa, around the theme "O Canada, We Stand on Guard for Thee.