Libraries are both an author’s and reader’s best friend. They’re even better than bookstores, because libraries just give books out and rely on your better instincts to actually return them! Well … that and a fine, which they may or may not be able to enforce. In any case, there are many reasons why libraries rock!
What better way for authors and readers to find each other than through the library? If you’re looking, for example, for a mystery, a librarian will point the way to the good ones. And during these times, in which so many writers are publishing books, isn’t it great to have someone to turn to, who can advise you on the best ones.
I know … for indie authors and those with small presses, the ultimate guide to attracting readers is thought to be the book review. There’s nothing wrong at all with having good reviews. Good word of mouth is essential for all working authors to succeed.
However, one edge libraries have on the written review is the ability to encourage communities of authors and readers to connect. Relying solely on social media marketing is no substitute for the chance to appear at a library event and talk to people.
Here are some photos of the Abingdon Library event I attended last Friday. The event was about the Self-E program, in which Library Journal curates indie authors’ and small press ebooks to be included in the Self-E library database.
L. Penelope and me, waiting to speak on day-time TV talk show stools! 🙂
Speaking to the crowd about Self-E and the indie life.
Me talking to a mystery reader/writer.
Signing a book for said reader/writer! 🙂
A gingerbread house the library had with their awesome spread!
Here’s another view! Yummy! 🙂
I’m happy to say that not only is IDENTITY CRISIS part of the Self-E program, but so is my anthology FIVE UNEASY PIECES. Furthermore, my young adult novel INVISIBLE ME is under consideration for inclusion.
Not only that, but I’ve been offered the opportunity to do a workshop on copyright. In the Internet Age, this subject is one of increasing importance. I’ll keep you apprised of the date (sometime in the fall) and location (probably Harford Library, Abingdon Branch) as the details are nailed down!
PS: Happy Martin Luther King’s birthday!
