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Community Bookseller FAQs

At Barefoot Books, our mission is to share stories, connect families, and inspire children. Here are the answers to your most commonly asked questions.


What does it mean to be a Barefoot Books Community Bookseller?

A Community Bookseller is an individual working in their community to bring high-quality Barefoot Books to children through book fairs, community events, local festivals or online. When you register as a Community Bookseller, you are starting an independent business that is flexible, fun and creative.


What are the ways I can sell Barefoot books?

Community Booksellers can market and sell Barefoot Books products in their community at book fairs, farmers’ markets, vendor events, and festivals. Community Booksellers are also encouraged to promote literacy through storytimes. You can also sell Barefoot Books through your website, blog and social networks.


What if there is already a Community Bookseller in my area?

Many communities have multiple Community Booksellers working side by side to get books into the hands of children. The need for high-quality, diverse and inclusive children’s books is very high. There are no exclusive territories assigned to Community Booksellers. You must respect previous relationships between booksellers and their customers or event organizers, but there are many opportunities out there just waiting for you to explore. Every person brings different strengths and experiences to our community.


What is the time commitment for running my Barefoot business?

This is your business. You are in control and decide how much time you want to invest. We recommend that Community Booksellers plan to dedicate at least 5-10 hours a week to the program, either engaged in selling, keeping up with company news, or planning ahead. You can also choose to run your business full-time. The advantage is that you can stay flexible depending on your schedule and goals.


What are my costs to get started?

Becoming a Community Bookseller starts when you register online for $49.99CA$64.99, plus applicable taxes. The cost to renew your Community Bookseller registration is $49.99CA$64.99 annually.


Do I have to pay extra for a website or online tools?

No. The annual registration fee includes your Barefoot Books website and full access to all online Community Bookseller tools. There are no hidden fees.


What help will I have getting my business started? Is there training?

We are here to support you along every part of your entrepreneurial journey. Barefoot Books provides Community Booksellers with training options through a variety of platforms.

Our Business Basics Business Basics page and Reference Guide Reference Guide are your starting points for accessing quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions and downloadable PDFs that will help you launch your business into high gear. Our Business Basics page and Reference Guide are your first stops for learning the ins and outs of being a Community Bookseller. For day-to-day support, we offer a Facebook Group for Community Booksellers where you can ask questions, share in each other's successes, and read the latest announcements from Barefoot Books. You will also be invited to attend monthly live webinar trainings as well as our annual Community Bookseller Conference in Concord, Massachusetts.

For in-person support, you can contact the home office at [email protected]. It may also be helpful to choose a Community Bookseller Mentor who can provide personalized tips and ongoing support.


Can I find Community Booksellers in my area or with similar interests?

Yes! It is easy to search for a Community Bookseller search for a Community Bookseller in your area and work with a mentor — this is a valuable resource as you begin to build your business. It is not mandatory to have a Barefoot Books mentor, but it is a great way to experience the Barefoot Books community first-hand.


How much can I earn?

There are many ways to earn income as a Community Bookseller. Barefoot Books offers Community Booksellers a 50% up-front discount on all products. Resell them at full price to earn a 50% profit. You will also earn 20-30% in commission for event and online orders shipped directly to customers.

Community Booksellers who choose to mentor others also have the opportunity to earn a 5% Quarterly Mentor Bonus on their team members’ sales.

Plus we have challenges with rewards for Community Booksellers that make a big impact in sales, leadership and in their community!


How will I be paid?

All commissions and bonuses earned in any calendar month are paid electronically within 10-14 business days of the month following the month in which they are earned. Mentor Bonuses are earned quarterly and added to the following month’s payment.


Is there a certain sales threshold I need to meet to be an active Community Bookseller?

No. Your Community Bookseller registration is good for a full year, no matter what.


Is there an order minimum?

There is no order minimum! Manage your business in the best way that benefits you.


Am I required to recruit others or build a team?

There are no recruiting requirements to participate in the Community Bookseller program, and you do not need to build a team in order to be successful. However, you can choose to become a mentor and be eligible for a quarterly Mentor bonus.


Will I be penalized if I leave the Program?

We understand that life can get busy or circumstances can change. You will not be penalized if you decide not to renew your Community Bookseller account after a year. All Barefoot Books products that you have ordered for business use are yours to keep, donate, or gift. Later, you may decide to register again and pick up where you left off!



Didn't find your answer here? Contact us!
Barefoot Books Customer Service[email protected]
or call toll-free on 866-417-2369, Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm EST
We look forward to hearing from you!


Additional FAQs are available for general customers and retailers.
For more information, click the links below:
General FAQs | Retailer FAQs