Milkweed Books is seeking a part-time bookseller. We are a small independent bookstore operated by the nonprofit publisher Milkweed Editions, and our brick-and-mortar store is located inside Open Book. Curation in our store prioritizes originality, marginalized voices, and books exploring our relationship to place and the more-than-human world. We also act as a resource for the neighborhood growing around us—a site of connection, community, and exploration.

We are looking for a part-time bookseller to staff the bookstore 10-15 hours a week and fulfill orders in our warehouse 10 hours a week. This position must be available both Saturday and Sundays and might include the possibility of additional hours as needed to meet the demands of the holiday season and evening events. Compensation is $17/hour. This position is entirely in-person at our downtown east location.

Our ideal applicant has:

• Retail experience, strong preference for those with bookselling or library history
• Knowledge of and enthusiasm for poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, both in the current publishing landscape at large and within the Twin Cities literary community
• Familiarity and knowledge with Milkweed’s literature and mission
• Proven history of prioritizing tasks with limited supervision
• Skills in handselling, providing and writing recommendations, and delivering excellent customer service
• Strong communication and organizational skills 
• An adeptness in working both cooperatively and independently
• An eagerness to assist in delivering exceptional events
• A desire to see the ins and outs of literary publishing, including warehouse organization and order fulfillment

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Operating a cash register, making change, and processing sales
• Learning and navigating bookselling databases such as Ingram and Edelweiss
• Lifting boxes weighing up to 40-50 lbs.
• Organizing and alphabetizing stock
• Up to 5 hours of independent work in our warehouse, moving from tasks quickly
• Making and receiving phone calls with customers
• Selling books at author events and assisting with the setup/teardown of events
• Occasionally assist Milkweed Editions’ authors, board of directors, and other community partners and organizations with signings and book orders
• Otherwise acting as a public-facing representative of Milkweed Editions

To apply, please submit a resume with a minimum of two references and a list of three titles that represent what you love to read, with 2-3 lines per book about why you chose each one, and any other details you would like us to know about you. Materials should be sent through Milkweed Editions’ Submittable page. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM CST on Monday, October 19, 2026, with an expected start date in early November 2026. No phone calls, please.

This position will report to the Bookstore & Sales Manager.

It is the policy of Milkweed Editions to afford equal employment opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, status as a disabled veteran, status with regard to public assistance, or any other protected class recognized by applicable laws.