Rising Talent - Using Your Library as a Connector
Whether connecting me with new readers, authors, or bookstore owners my public library has been my most critical networking tool to date.
After a fun trip to escape the Midwest cold, I’m currently paying the price by hibernating indoors with sick kiddos, which means I’ll have to keep this post brief (a two-year-old koala bear’d on top of me makes typing very difficult).
The reason I chose to discuss the importance of including libraries in an author’s network tool box this week is because my recent trip to Scottsdale was a result of one. The signing was at a reputable bookstore, and I connected with the owner not because of my author reputation, but because the director of my public library foundation put us in touch.
Reaching out to more libraries in my area is something I personally want to do more this year, and looking back I wish I had prioritized those relationships well before my book came out. I should be doing this regularly, but I’ve been juggling parenting two young kiddos during sick season, on top of writing my second book and promoting my first. We all do what we can, with the little time we have and that has to be enough, right? My life is daily prioritization, and I can only imagine yours is too. On that note, let’s take a quick moment to reset. The last thing I want from this space is for you to think you have an ever growing to-do list, or that your own book sales efforts are inadequate. That’s not my intention at all. My hope is even if you attempt one of these outreaches, you find it helps progress your author career in some way.
Anyway, back to libraries. I’ve benefited from mine in such significant ways, I can only imagine the opportunities that might present themselves if I was able to extend that network to more throughout my state. I’m curious whether any other authors here have and what success they’ve found as a result?
I’m very fortunate my library is such a cultivated resource in our community and I recognize what a privilege that is. However, it’s worth exploring outside of your community if a neighboring city or town have a larger one. Not only will you find readers, but you’ll find connectors who might have access to other authors and introduce you to local bookstore owners. Furthermore, it’s a great opportunity to discuss the possibility of hosting you for a community event because many people find great joy in meeting and supporting local authors.
Case in point, my biggest author event to date has been at our library. A room full of people drove from Ohio, Illinois, and all over the state of Indiana to see not me, but NYT bestselling author, Ally Carter. Which meant… excellent exposure for myself! Not only did I sell a large number of books, but it was an incredible experience. I got the chance to interview her, hear about her process, and also talk to the room about my book. One of the attendees even wound up selecting it as her bookclub pick a few months later, which meant more book sales and continued word of mouth.
What has your experience been with your local library? Have you benefited from its resources and connections?