So what is the value of a clean, well-lit place? It is people. “It’s something that you can’t scientifically determine,” Smith said. “There is a core human need to be with people in a place that is stimulating and exciting.” Back to the proto-Internet: booksellers. “They are remarkable people,” Smith added. “People like the exchange with them, they have a passion and it rubs off. … It’s really a very simple formula: [A bookstore is a] welcoming place, with interesting stuff and welcoming people.”

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