Monday, March 28, 2016

Librarians and Writers: A Symbiotic Relationship By Jacqueline Seewald


I suggest that authors look to promote their books, whether fiction or nonfiction, at libraries. Some libraries will pay writers to come and speak; others will at least provide writers with exposure to the reading public. Not all libraries welcome authors but there are many that do. As a former librarian and teacher, I can testify to the fact that authors are welcome to provide an event at many libraries. Books are an important component of what the library has to offer. Authors are respected by most librarians.

If you are a relatively unknown writer, try to get a local newspaper to do a story on you before your library appearance. Also, if you’re not Nora Roberts or Mary Higgins Clark, don’t expect people to come in droves just because you announce a book signing. Think in terms of what kind of event you can provide that library patrons will enjoy and appreciate.

I presented an event at my local library entitled “We Can All Be Writers.” It was not just a talk but a happening—an interactive experience for both attendees and myself. I provided writing exercises that we could do together and discuss. I’ll also gave a hand-out listing sources of inspiration for aspiring writers as well as library resources. In short, I was offering information hopefully of value to patrons.

Fifteen people showed up who were eager to participate. When I previously did this program in Central New Jersey, twenty-five people were present and actively participated. However, fifteen was a comfortable group to work with and they were very enthusiastic. I also had help from the library coordinator who turned my overhead transparencies into a Power Point presentation.

What’s in it for you, the author? Hopefully, library patrons may want to either borrow some of your novels from the library or purchase them from you. At the very least, the library will buy your book. In my case, I offered some of my novels at a heavily discounted price and had the librarian take the money because I donated any money earned from the sale of my books to the Friends of the Library so they can continue to sponsor more events. It was my way of giving back to the community.

What is your opinion of authors doing events, talks or panel discussions at libraries? Have you participated in any library events? If so, how has it worked out? Will you consider doing it in the future?


22 comments:

  1. Far too many writers ignore libraries in their quest for sales. Libraries are actually one of the best publicity and name recognition tools a writer can have. A good relationship with a librarian (and a good book!) can help an author's career immensely. Janis, aka Susan

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    1. I agree with you. If writers are fortunate enough to get their books in libraries, they not only increase their readership but enhance their reputations as serious authors.

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  2. I love libraries and I've given a few "talks" about writing in general and, of course, about my books. I'm fortunate to have a fantastic head librarian at my favorite local branch who is very supportive and encouraging. Library events are a great way to get our books out there!

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    1. Establishing a connection with librarians is an important way to get the word out about a writer's work.

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  3. I love doing library programs, especially panels with other writers. As you indicated, some libraries welcome writers and others do not, preferring their own programming. Still, writers can offer a variety of programming to make the experience interesting or educational or just entertaining. Good post, Jacquie.

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    1. Thanks, Susan. As you observe, authors have much to offer libraries in the form of interesting, educational and entertaining programs.

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  4. All really great advice, Jacqueline.
    Good luck and God's Blessings.
    PamT

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  5. Those in the Sacramento area are lucky to have so many library branches who enjoy promoting local authors. I've given individual presentations titled "the pothole-filled path to publication" as well as participated in panels with other local Sisters in Crime members. Whenever I've approached a library, they've been supportive. The last event I participated in was standing room only. (okay, it wasn't that big of a room but still)!

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    1. Cindy,

      That's very impressive! I'm glad to hear you had such a strong reception at your area libraries.

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  6. I think libraries are a great place to promote our books. There's one in Green Valley that is so wonderful about promoting local authors that a friend of mine waited 3 years to get in! He had a ball. A librarian in Boise, where I used to live, was incredible about helping authors with book launches and writing reviews.

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    1. That is wonderful, Kathy! I hope some librarians are reading this and getting ideas. We writers need their help and encouragement and vice versa.

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  7. Librarians like books and support people who write them. I've done readings at libraries, and I find the librarians are terrific at organizing and promoting these sessions. And, of course, they make sure your book is on their shelves, where you may reach readers who can't afford to buy books in bookstores.

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    1. As you observe, libraries are a great way to reach readers who prefer not to buy books but still want to read them.

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  8. An excellent idea, Jacquie. My local library has always been helpful and welcoming to writers. And Sisters in Crime NE has a marvelous speaker's bureau whereby we sign up to do library panels all over New England with a guaranteed $50 remuneration. I've done over sixty of them in the past, with between five and fifty in attendance, depending on the size of the town.

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    1. Hi, Mary,

      You're amazing! I've only spoken at a couple of libraries. You could write an informative blog on this topic.

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  9. Great advice. So many people want to write their memoirs, not to sell, but to acquaint children and grandchildren with their ancestors. The desire to share their history seems to come upon very mature folks. A bonus is: they are attentive and very well-behaved.

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    1. Hi, Sharon,

      I've been approached by a number of people who want to write a memoir and have helped them get started. It is a wonderful legacy to leave to grandchildren in particular.

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  10. My writing life without libraries/librarians would be incomplete. Our local Friends groups are eager to showcase us writers and our wares. In my next life, I am sure I will be either a librarian or a used book! Nice post.

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  11. Thanks, Susan. Glad you get the support of the Friends.

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  12. Jacquie, great advice. One of my fondest memories was notification that my first novel was carried in a library many, many miles from where I lived. This was great inspiration.

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    1. Hi, Betty,

      That is very encouraging. I'm hoping that many libraries will order THE KILLING LAND as well.

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