A Textbook Example of Success: SCORE helps to change the future of business

SCORE: Chester County Chapter
West Chester, PA

In 1991 Dan Lieberman came up with an idea that would change the future for him and his then 50-something-year-old dad. As a college student, Dan capitalized on a need, and started Dynamic Student Services (DSS) buying and selling used textbooks from his college dorm room in West Chester, Pa.

When the business needed retail space, Dan turned to his parents, Michael and Miriam Lieberman, and a partnership was formed. Michael had just been offered an early retirement from IBM after 25 years. Although he had no experience in the text book industry, he supported his son's vision.

Dan and Michael found a retail location just across the street from West Chester's main campus, and converted a former hair salon into the DSS storefront.

Together, they were assisted by the Chester County Chapter of SCORE, which helped them set up the business structure and provided marketing advice. Because of his achievements, Dan was awarded SBA's Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 1993 for the Philadelphia District Office.

In 1997, Dan and Michael wanted to expand DSS to other college campuses in the area, and needed help with financing. They quickly realized that traditional lenders did not understand the college textbook business. Fortunately, they were approved for an SBA line of credit by then CoreStates Bank (now Wachovia).

With the assistance of the SBA's financing programs, DSS has expanded to three retail stores and a warehouse. For Dan and Michael, business ownership has been an invaluable journey that continues to move forward.

From its modest beginnings in Dan's dorm room, and Michael's pivotal transition from a corporate career, DSS sales increased to more than $6 million in 2003. If you ask Dan and Michael, they will tell you that their future in business is bright.

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