Preservation of Correspondence - And Media

I'm told the only way for the independents to really survive now is to find a way to differentiate themselves. Of the record stores that I frequent, four are rather unusual in their lack of specialization, and the fourth is pretty much specialized on Psychedalic (this is the owners chief intrest), Jazz and Alternative. As I understand it, in a lot of cities the independents are strongly specialized. I was in my favorite one recently when someone from Seattle was in there commenting on the wide selection of music compared to the stores up there. Every independent I'm aware of in our area except one, has at least some used vinyl, most have large amounts, in addition to new and used CD's (and often DVD's). Most carry a limited amount of new vinyl, the exception being the store I mentioned that specializes, as it is probably close to half new vinyl. As I mentioned the other day, vinyl sales are increasing while CD sales are dropping. One thing that really confuses me on the whole CD/Vinyl sales thing is that while some albums will cost considerably more on Vinyl, a sizable number are significantly cheaper (for example the latest Bob Dylan or Johnny Cash albums released last year). I've also seen current vinyl releases that have extra songs that aren't on the CD. I'm not even aware of any chain stores left in the area that specialize in music, they're all gone. All that is left in that market would be stores like Best Buy, Target, and Fred Meyers. Their selection can be less than stellar. What really got me was Fry's when I was there last weekend, their selection was so slim, it makes me wonder if they're getting out of CD sales. Zane