Running a bookstore means juggling a lot—inventory, customer service, marketing, and, of course, keeping the space looking great. But let’s be honest, maintenance work isn’t exactly the fun part of the job. That’s where outsourcing comes in. Instead of spending your time fixing leaky faucets or deep-cleaning shelves, you can bring in professionals to handle it.
Here are three tips to help you outsource maintenance work the smart way.
Know What to Outsource and What to Keep In-House
Not every maintenance task needs an outside contractor. Some things, like tidying up shelves, cleaning counters, or even minor repairs, can be handled by your staff. Still, when it comes to things like deep cleaning, electrical issues, carpentry, plumbing, or HVAC maintenance, it’s best to call in the experts.
Think about what takes up too much of your time or requires special skills. If a shelf breaks, you don’t want to waste time Googling “how to fix a shelf.” Having a trusted professional carpenter on call can save you a lot of stress.
So make a list of the maintenance tasks your bookstore needs regularly and decide which ones are worth outsourcing.
Find Reliable Service Providers
When outsourcing maintenance, you want people who do the job well—without needing constant supervision. Start by asking for recommendations from other local businesses. If there’s a bookstore or café nearby with a well-maintained space, ask who they use for cleaning or repairs.
Once you have a few options, do a little research. Look at online reviews, check their response times, and see if they have experience working with retail spaces. Bookstores have unique needs—you need someone who understands that dusting isn’t just about floors, but also bookshelves, and that water leaks near books can be disastrous.
Another tip? Try them out with a small job first. If they show up on time, do a great job, and charge fairly, you’ll know they’re a good fit for long-term work.
Set Clear Expectations and a Schedule
Once you find the right maintenance team, communication is key. Be clear about what you need, how often you need it, and any special requirements. For example, if you run events in your store, let the cleaners know they need to come after closing so customers don’t walk into a mop bucket.
Regular maintenance schedules also help prevent big problems down the line. Instead of waiting for something to break, set up a monthly or quarterly maintenance check-up.
And don’t forget the contract! Whether it’s a simple agreement or a more detailed one, having a written understanding of services, costs, and response times can save you headaches later.
Outsourcing maintenance work lets you focus on what you do best. So go ahead, let someone else handle the repairs while you focus on curating the perfect book selection!
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