Edit: I ended up getting a response from a Loyalty team member, who explained that they were short staffed due to holidays and staff illness (hence the delay in correspondence), that they were not sure what happened with their publishing partner, and that they would work to send me the books that I ordered as soon as possible. Long story short, I received the last of the items in mid February (about 60 days after ordering).
I understand things happen. Not everything will go perfectly. I raised the score from 1 star to 3 because the staff who assisted me ultimately resolve the issue was very helpful. I am open to working with Loyalty Bookstores in the future and will update the rating again if this turned out to be a fluke.
Sad to write this review. I was looking for local bookstores to support and placed a $75 order on Dec. 3 online with Loyalty Bookstore. I received an email a few days later stating that they were shipping my order via their publishing partner in order to get it to me faster. As of today, January 6, I have yet to receive my books or any communication from this mysterious partner. I've also yet to receive a response from Loyalty Bookstore's staff, despite contacting them twice via their website contact page (no phone numbers provided to call the store directly).
I'd love the books that I ordered or, if my order fell through the cracks (which happens sometimes! Not the end of the world by any means), I'd like a refund. Before either can happen, however, I need someone to email be back. Hopefully this review helps move things along since patience and using their direct...
   Read moreI was lured in my books and a queer-Asian-owned business. The bookstore itself wasn't the issue. As a fellow queer Asian, I went in with my friend, also queer BIPOC. We were not greeted or spoken to, except for when I asked about their finding Waldo game. However, the white woman who came in right after us was greeted and had a whole conversation with staff. I chalked this up to perhaps a regular customer. Though, when I asked about the Waldo thing, the staff member was dismissive and rude. During our entire visit, that was the only time we were spoken to. For a business that seems to pride itself on being a BIPOC business, it was a very hostile environment. The white staff member was only kind to the white customer. While we wanted to stay longer and expressed interest in several items out loud, we felt it best to leave. It's unfortunate when businesses use marginalized politics to get a leg up when they do not celebrate the very people they claim...
   Read moreI absolutely love Loyalty Bookstores! This locally owned and operated gem has a fantastic selection of books, especially for kids. The staff is always friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to help with recommendations. While the new location is smaller than their previous one on Upshur Street, the store still has the same great vibe and charm. I appreciate their variety and the personalized service they offer. It’s always a treat to stop by, and the convenient hours (Tues-Fri 11 AM-7 PM, Sat 10 AM-8 PM, and Sun 10 AM-5 PM) make it easy to pop in. Highly recommend supporting this wonderful...
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