ACU turning the page on traditional bookstore For immediate release August 10, 1999 By LORETTA FULTON Senior Staff Writer Courtesy of Abilene Reporter-News Don't expect to buy a book in the bookstore at Abilene Christian University, unless it's a nicely packaged gift book. The new Campus Store carries just about everything a student might need, except textbooks. Those are located in the basement, well out of sight of the ACU Campus Store patrons. The newly renovated Campus Store in McGlothlin Campus Center looks more like a finely appointed department store than the familiar campus bookstore. "We're a lot more than a traditional bookstore," said store manger Anthony Williams. "For the first time we've done a good job of meeting the needs of the students." A ribbon cutting ceremony Monday afternoon marked the opening of the store, which reflects a trend in campus stores across the country. Once primarily a repository of textbooks and sweatshirts, today's campus stores are full service, offering a wide range of goods. Dr. Jack Rich, executive vice president, said the old store was somewhat of a "historical landmark" on campus, resembling a Woolworth's of the 1960s. The new store looks more like a "Nieman-Marcus of 2000," he said. That distinction wasn't lost on the students mingling among the store's many offerings Monday afternoon. From soap by the slice to inflatable dorm furniture, the Campus Store has it all. "It feels more like a department store than a bookstore now," said Brooke Lucas, a senior. Some items might be purchased for less elsewhere, but students in the store Monday said sometimes price isn't the only factor to consider. "It's the convenience," said Jenny Reed, a senior. "If you're checking your mail, you can just run over here." The store carries Hallmark cards, a variety of clothing, computers and software, Christian music, housewares, Texas-themed gift items, exquisite chocolates and much more. Williams, the store manager, predicts the horde of students starting class on Aug. 23 will be overwhelmed with the new store. "They'll be speechless," he said. Loretta Fulton can be reached at 676-6778 or fultonl@abinews.com. -- 30 -- Archived News Releases - Current ACU News and Events If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact Tom Craig, director of media and community relations, at craigt@nicanor.acu.edu or call 915-674-2692 (cell phone: 665-5469). Last update: August 10, 1999 This page is maintained by Tom Craig, craigt@nicanor.acu.edu. http://www.acu.edu/people/news/990810-campusstore.html