The Savvy Book Marketer

Should Friends Request Your Book at Libraries?

by Dana Lynn Smith

Recently an author asked me if it would be helpful for her friends, family or networking circles to request her book from their local libraries, to encourage the libraries to order the book.

Maybe, but remember that librarians are aware of this tactic so having multiple people request a book may raise a red flag. This tactic may bring a book to a librarian's attention, but they may not order it unless they feel it's a quality product and meets a need in their community (and they have the budget for it.)

On the other hand, many libraries do try to fulfill patron requests. If you do ask people to request your book at their library, be sure to encourage them to check out the book once it's available!

To learn more about selling to libraries, see The Savvy Book Marketer's Guide to Selling Your Book to Libraries.

My database of the top 50 public and top 50 university libraries in the United States (plus a bonus list of 200+ Texas libraries) is available for just $10 or it comes free with the PDF version of my Selling Your Book to Libraries ebook.

Also Barbara Florio Graham offers a list of the top 100 Canadian libraries  with purchasing power for $35, ready to print on labels.

Remember, you can submit your top book marketing questions to the Savvy Book Marketer.
 

What's the Best Way to Promote Children's Books?

by Dana Lynn Smith

The first step in promoting any type of book is to understand your target audiences and develop a written book marketing plan. For tips, download my free report, Create a Book Marketing Plan That Sells Books. 

Books for younger children are usually purchased by adults, including parents, grandparents, other relatives and friends, teachers, and librarians. Teens often choose their own reading material, but keep in mind that a large percentage of the readers for young adult books are adults, many of them parents.

When promoting books for young children, interaction with kids and parents can be very effective. Look into school visits, library reading programs, book fairs and other events where families congregate. Also check out the Mom's Choice awards program.

To learn more about promoting children's books, check out my author training program, How to Sell More Children's Books.

Authors, what are your favorite ways to promote children's books? Please share in the comments area below.