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March 01, 2001
LIBRIS -- Bookstore Insurance from ABA
LIBRIS (League of Independent Book Retailer Insurance Services), the insurance
subsidiary of ABA, enables booksellers to purchase policies tailored for independent
bookstores underwritten by Fireman's Fund, one of the nation's strongest insurers.
The LIBRIS Program, according to Program Administrator Patrick Haller, offers
all the standard business coverages plus some uncommon ones that address loss
exposures unique to independent booksellers.
Haller told BTW, "LIBRIS offers coverage for rare and used books, for
property at book fairs and exhibitions, Internet service protection, and for
in-store cafes. Most traditional insurers don't understand these special needs.
Because LIBRIS is a part of ABA, our understanding of the bookselling industry
is great. The rates are low, and unlike most large insurers, we will write policies
for new businesses. Best of all, the profits feed back to the booksellers through
dividends -- which have been paid each of the last three years-and through ABA
and all of its work."
Since 1996, when ABA founded LIBRIS, members have been able to insure their
businesses for property damage, liability, theft, workers compensation, and
additional optional coverages. In 1997, the LIBRIS program was extended to include
independent booksellers who are not ABA members.
Haller also told BTW that the LIBRIS administrators are cognizant of the relationships
that many stores have with their local, independent insurance agents. "We
have great respect for these relationships… they are important to all of
us and we want very much to maintain them. LIBRIS can work directly with the
store's local agent, and that agent can act on their behalf. In that situation,
the store's agent will continue to service their account, interpret the coverage,
and receive the commissions. We would never attempt to solicit business away
from the existing agent."
The use of a dedicated claims line, responsive customer service, Web access,
and loss prevention services, have all contributed to high customer satisfaction
with LIBRIS. For free quotes and other information, contact Alison Murray of
LIBRIS at 1655 Lafayette St., Suite 200, Denver, Colorado, 80218; (888) 694-8585;
fax: 303-388-5585; e-mail: [email protected];
or visit the LIBRIS Web site at www.LIBRIS.org.
Topics: About ABA, Affinity Programs,
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