WE've done the B&N bookfairs a few times with good luck! You do have to contact the store directly and talk to the store manager and the event takes place AT the store. Kinda nice and really relaxing. Also most have a Starbucks so it smells wonderful, too! Now out here we are able to recive a percentage of the sales for the prearranged time slot given (6-9pm is popular) and earn tips at a gift wrap area that they help us set-up, if you can do that- ask! Now during the holidays I volunteer with another service group working the gift wrap table which is great fun! On a great day, we have earned near $100 in tips! We have been doing this enough years that we are offered a few Sat. which helps.
When booking your bookfair, please be aware of uncoming holidays and certain stipulations. Like graduation, going back to school but they don't tend to schedual during the holidays unless you just do the gift wrap. OR For example, coupons can not be handed to the entering customers, it have to be their choice but the PTO can send home these coupons in advance and encourage family and friends to come. Our store manager even helped us arrange a local author to be at the event to promote his book and autographs! He was great with the kids and the Principal, teachers, Asst. Principal and Dean read to the kids. The biggest risk with this concept is the chance it will be a good night for business in general and the support you recieve from parents and teachers. But isn't that with any fundraiser? A wish list from them (teachers) goes over great, even better if Appreciation Week is coming up!
Barnes and Noble can be pricy but they also offer a great sale priced area were I have been able to find some great books reasonably priced (an issue when 5 kids EACH want a new book!
Too bad about Borders, I've been there a couple times....that's all I want to say about that.
But call the store, I hope it is the best fundraiser yet!