by DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
Libraries are in the business of ensuring their patrons have plenty of reading, viewing, and listening choices. They keep their scopes up for the latest and greatest media items to fill their shelves. Every genre is represented, which means a win-win relationship for writers.
Are you interested in the reasons why libraries are of tremendous value to writers?
How Libraries Help Authors
- Libraries do not return books.
- Libraries buy for all their branches.
- Libraries replace damaged books and other media.
- Libraries value bookmarks.
- Libraries welcome book clubs.
- Libraries encourage author appearance events and may permit book sales.
- Libraries believe readers are their priority—just like authors.
Where do authors find contact information for libraries?
- Visit libraries in your area.
- Search neighboring cities for public libraries.
- Search various states for public libraries.
- If appropriate, search out church libraries locally and in other states.
- Search online for your state’s libraries’
- Research your state’s library conference.
- Contact colleges and universities for their library information.
- Research Library Journal for news and events.
- Research American Library Association for news and events.
- Collaborate with other authors to develop a library database.
How do authors present themselves?
- For local libraries: create a physical media kit and schedule an appointment.
- For online libraries: create an online media kit.
- Offer an event that appeals to writers and readers.
- Be enthusiastic!
- Be professional!
- Provide a free book if the book has been released and the library doesn’t have a copy.
- Be flexible.
Are you ready to seek out library relationships?
TWEETABLE
She is the former director of the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, Mountainside Marketing Retreat, and Mountainside Novelist Retreat with social media specialist Edie Melson. Connect here: DiAnnMills.com
Thank you for another great idea on how we can market ourselves Ms. DiAnn. Never afraid to ask the "silly question", can you share your thoughts on what a physical Media Kit should include? I assume it's more than a good author bio and some bookmarks. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteJ.D., I'd be happy to share what should be in a media kit other than a good bio with the writer's headshot (printed on quality white paper), bookmarks, endorsements, a copy of the book, business card, postcard if applicable, media press release, and all in a professional folder. If nonfiction, stats, research, anything professional that shows the writer's credentials. Always, always have an electronic press kit.
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