Job Title: Bookstore Associate Hours: 16–24 hours per week, including some weekend/evening shifts Location: Amant, Brooklyn, NY Position Type: Part-Time Reports to: Chief Curator and Director of Design and Publishing About Amant Amant is a dynamic non-profit arts organization founded in 2019 that fosters artistic research, experimentation, and dialogue through exhibitions, live programs, publications, and artist residencies. Operating across three locations in Brooklyn, NY; Chiusure, Siena, Italy; and José Ignacio, Uruguay, Amant advances the presentation of contemporary art with an emphasis on innovative formats and ideas. Our 31,000-square-foot Brooklyn campus features exhibition spaces, multipurpose screening and performance venues, a café, restaurant, and bookshop, all serving as a hub for interdisciplinary artistic exchange. Role Overview The Bookstore Associate at Amant curates a dynamic inventory of artist monographs, exhibition catalogues, theory, and independent publications that complement Amant’s mission and curatorial programming. This role splits focus between specialized inventory selection and the hands-on administration of daily retail operations, including maintenance of Amant’s online shop. You will ensure the physical and online shops remain financially sustainable while acting as an educational extension of Amant. Key Responsibilities Curating & Buying Procure a specialized inventory of books, zines, and artist editions aligned with current exhibitions in collaboration with the curatorial staff Maintain relationships with independent publishers, international distributors, and local artists. Monitor inventory levels, identify sales trends, and place timely reorders within budget limits. Negotiate wholesale discounts and return terms with vendors to protect profit margins. Shop Administration & Operations Manage day-to-day retail operations, including opening/closing procedures and point-of-sale (POS) system updates. Process deliveries and orders, handle receiving and order fulfillment logistics, and maintain an organized backstock area. Conduct regular inventory counts and ensure accurate digital stock records. Keep the physical shop space and merchandise displays organized, clean, and visually compelling. Handle online shop and e-commerce operations including content creation in collaboration with the Director of Design and Publishing. Collaborate with the design team on signage, social media, marketing collateral, documentation, and copywriting for the physical and online shops. Visitor Experience & Event Support Provide knowledgeable, high-quality customer service to Amant visitors and researchers. Collaborate with the public programming and design teams to support book launches, signings, exhibition openings, and the annual Bomb Small Press Flea Contribute to the development of bookstore programing Qualifications & Skills BA in Literature, Philosophy, Art History, or relevant field Excellent writing, communication, and organizational skills Self-starter who can contribute ideas to further develop and promote the Amant bookstore and online shop. Experience: 3+ years of experience in retail buying, bookstore operations, or museum retail. Knowledge: Strong familiarity with contemporary art, critical theory, design, and independent publishing. Technical Skills: Proficiency with modern POS and inventory software (e.g., Shopify, Square). Availability: Flexible schedule with the ability to work on specific weekend days or evening events. Salary range/hourly wage commensurate with experience
