I applied in-person. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Books-A-Million in Oct 2010
Interview
I walked into Books A Million (BAM) on a Thursday and was informed that they had just had a job fair, but if I still applied online that they might still consider me. So I applied online that day, then I went back in on the following Monday to formally introduce myself to the manager and turn in a resume. I was called that same night for an interview on Wednesday. I arrived 15 minutes early and checked in at the Cafe. Shortly after checking in, the store manager and the district manager joined me in the cafe where they preceded with the interview. They basically just asked me about myself and my experience with retail. They also kept stressing if I could sell discount cards and magazine subscriptions. I was a little put off by that because they made it seem that the discount cards meant more than the sales....and the cards are $20! Anyways, after the interview was over it took them 3 days to call me and formally offer me the job. I had applied to several other places and had interviews at all of them, and one offered more money (and less stress as far as selling expensive discount cards go), so I declined their offer.
It was a quick phone call and was very easy, casual conversation. Questions focused on background and interest in working at the store and knowledge of stock management. I also went in person to discuss further.
Know about books. Don't wear jeans. Store has closed so you probably won't get hired here now. Expect to be asked about sales skills and customer service skills and literacy skills.