Wow - they sound like a fantastic company to work for!  Obviously they are looking for energetic, goal oriented people who want more than "just a job" in life.  I love the fact that they will pay for volunteer/community service hours!  (My company allows me up to 4 hours a month for community service at regular pay).

I don't have any bookstore experience (other than being an avid reader  ), so I can't help you there.  But I'd suggest applying - you don't have anything to lose except the opportunity if you don't apply.

As for your varicose veins, wearing a support stocking will help.  Plus, standing is harder on your legs than walking or moving around, so just try to keep moving.  If you have to stand in one place for very long (like being the cashier), then do deep knee bends/squats as often as you can to keep the circulation moving.

I worked at a Barnes and Noble for awhile.  Even over the holiday season, there was a ton of downtime where there was nothing to do but stand (as a cashier).  On every shift, though, some were assigned to casheir and some to straighten the shelves, serving as cashier only if it got really busy.   I suppose you could request to be assigned to that as much as possible. 

I think it would be a great opportunity if you can get it.  I loved working in a bookstore, and when my seasonal time was up, it was the only job I've ever had that I truly hated to leave.

Good luck!

Ooh, exciting! I hope everything goes well with your application.

There are several styles of support stockings -knee highs, pantyhose etc. I hope you'll find something that works for you. Remember also to invest in good, comfortable sandals.

Hope this opportunity works out for you.  I work in a library myself.  I used to work the circulation desk which I imagine is a lot like working retail in that you deal with the public.  After two years I found it too hard physically on my back and feet, and too hard otherwise on my nerves.  It never ceases to amaze me what people think they're entitled to!    But the book part of it is wonderful!  Now I work in the back room getting the books and other materials ready to go out on the shelves -  you know, putting the labels and covers on - stuff like that.  The hardest part of the job now is not reading the books when I'm supposed to be covering them.  I can't imagine a better job than being around books all day and I hope you are able to make this work for you.  Good luck!!