Books-A-Million — Local services in North Myrtle Beach

Bookstores are one of my favorite places. This one is no exception. I wanted a book to read while I was on the beach so I browsed and found several books I purchased. The store was clean and orderly. I didn’t see any books that were in the wrong sections. The bargain area was huge with more books stored on the shelves under the tables and displays. I love finding a bargain when it comes to books. The magazine section was plentiful and easy to see the titles. I was there towards the end of the day and announcements were made, beginning at the middle of the hour that the store would be closing in 30 minutes. I made my way to the register not quite getting there before another announcement was made stating the store would be closing in 20 minutes. I waited in line, with two people ahead of me, for 10 minutes. Only one person was at the register. The clerk was pleasant but slow considering the announcements being made. There was another customer behind me in line and others still shopping in the store. I know it can be frustrating waiting on customers but if announcements are made that frequently, I would have thought that a second person would have been at a register or at least helping bag while the other...

I wasn't going to comment on my experience here, but what happened at the register compelled me to speak my mind. The store is laid out perfectly fine and they have plenty of diverse products here from reading materials to collectibles and on. Now onto my check out experience. As I approached the register, the person behind the counter started into a spiel on the PA system that was not only long, but not performed very well; thus forcing me to stand and wait while she read out what felt like a full page of dialogue regarding something that must not have been very memorable because I can't remember just four minutes later. After I was rung up, I was asked not once, not twice, but THREE TIMES to add some kind of membership card or subscription or some other added thing that I DIDN'T ASK FOR. One time would be ok and sadly almost expected these days, but not three different things, when I had already been forced to wait. Unpleasant experiences like this make me think that buying things online might be better...

I start this review with advice for all readers: check prices online when in the store. All three of the books I bought were being sold on the BOM website for 20-30% less than they were in the store. Ask for price matching. I did not notice this until I left and do not live near a BOM store so I'm bummed I could have saved quite a bit money had I done my due diligence first.

That being said, I did not let that affect my review. The store was very clean and surprisingly well stocked. I guess COVID delays and production issues may not apply to bookstores as it does other businesses. The staff that were there were knowledgeable but I only saw two staff members in the slightly busy store and had to wait in line to check availability of a book I was looking for and then again for help actually finding it in the large store. I give the store a review of 4/5 stars only because I had to spend more time in the store than I had anticipated and wait in line for every little thing as there just wasn't...