Baker & Taylor, a distributor of books and digital media to libraries and a portfolio company of Castle Harlan, has acquired certain assets of Book Wholesalers, Inc. from Follett Corporation.
Book Wholesalers is a provider of children’s and young adult books in both print and digital formats to public libraries. Products include books, graphic novels, DVDs and music, and adult and reference materials. The company was founded in 1987 and is based in McHenry, IL (www.bwibooks.com).
Baker & Taylor is a distributor of books, videos, and music products to libraries, institutions and retailers. Baker & Taylor also offers library services and retail merchandising programs. The company is based in Charlotte, NC (www.btol.com).
“Baker & Taylor is privileged to work with BWI to offer customers the unique benefits and value of our programs and services,” said George Coe, president of Library & Education at Baker & Taylor. “We are the industry’s leading distributor to public libraries and have developed the tools they need for continued success, including the Axis 360 digital media platform, two-day fulfillment of cataloged and processed materials, standing order and collection development services, and much more. We know BWI customers will benefit from the breadth of our programs and the personalized approach we offer each and every day.”
Castle Harlan, founded in 1987, invests in controlling interests in the buyout and development of middle-market companies in North America, Europe and, together with CHAMP Private Equity, in Australia. Since its inception, Castle Harlan has invested in more than 50 companies representing more than $10 billion in enterprise value. Castle Harlan currently manages investment funds with equity commitments of $3.5 billion. The firm is based in New York, NY (www.castleharlan.com).
© 2012 PEPD • Private Equity’s Leading News Magazine • 9-6-12