Date: Wed, 06 Oct 2004 09:43:28 -0700 (PDT
From: Bob Schatz (everbob_at_yahoo.com)
Subject: Regarding the closing of Franklin Book Co.
In the week-and-a half since Franklin Book Co. Inc. closed its doors,
I have been contacted by a number of librarians wanting more information
about that event. I will share what I can, which is limited, given that I
lost my job at Franklin along with the rest of its employees. I write here
as an individual. I am not in any way associated any longer with Franklin,
and I certainly am not any kind of official spokesperson.
Monday of last week all employees of Franklin, including me, were told
that our jobs were ended and that the company was closing immediately. I
do not believe it plans to re-open. I have no information how the company,
or what remains of it, intends to act with regard to publishers or library
customers. I believe some kind of letter has been sent to at least some publishers,
but I do not know have firsthand knowledge of this. I do not know if any
communiqué has been sent to libraries.
I no longer have any direct communication with Manny Deckter, my former
boss, and CEO of Franklin. His home phone has been disconnected so no one
can reach him there. My last email to him was answered by his attorney. Perhaps
this attorney, or through him, Mr. Deckter, would be willing to issue an
official statement to those desiring (and deserving) more information. He is:
Mr. Michael Hynes
Cozen, O'Connor Attorneys
1900 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Email: mhynes_at_cozen.com
Phone: 215-665-4610
Beyond this, I am as much in the dark as anyone regarding these events.
Like many of you, I am angered and saddened by all this. Having recently
sold my house in Oregon and transplanted myself to Philadelphia in anticipation
of a long career with Franklin, I share your disbelief and frustration. I
hope, for all our sake, that more information about these events will be
forthcoming from Mr. Deckter or his representatives. Until then, I look forward
to rejoining the library/bookselling professional community and celebrating
happier times.
Bob Schatz, Private Citizen
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Received on Wed Oct 06 2004 - 14:06:06 EDT