They are, but for good reasons. They can't compete against smaller retailers when it comes to pricing, so instead they focus on their strength: variety and quality service.

I could get the books cheaper elsewhere, but last I check no other local bookstores carried the series. Ordering from Amazon would cost about the same plus waiting time.

So I suppose it's a give and take situation. They need the profit margin to stay in business, and I need my dose of good books.