The most important rule change to affect bookstores in recent years was the collapse of the Net Book Agreement in 1995. Before then, publishers imposed fixed prices upon their books, but widespread discounting by booksellers ended the practice.
The changes haven’t exactly helped small bookstores, with large chains able to use their huge purchasing power to offer discounts on sought-after titles that independent sellers simply can’t match.
However, if you are selling on new books you are now, at least, able to set your own prices, rather than one set by the publisher. With careful budgeting and exploitation of areas with little competition, you can take advantage by cutting prices, much like most other retail businesses.
Apart from this rule change, no other significant laws have specifically affected booksellers in recent years, so make sure you follow all normal regulations that apply to retailers.
Make sure you have health and safety insurance, ensure that staff are paid the minimum wage and that you keep up with rent or loan payments. Working out a policy for returned or unwanted books will also prove beneficial.