Why You Should Look To The Libraries
Some writers believe the only way to earn income is to publish their book on Amazon and other retailers.
This on its surface seems innocent enough, but when the revenue they wish for doesn't come in they become disheartened and eventually place their pens down all together.
There is a way to not only increase your chances of getting your books into libraries but by also adding libraries to your marketing efforts it will become second nature and before long you will reap the benefits.
A MISCONCEPTION
Some writers believe that once a library purchases your novel they will never buy from you again.
This is also not true as library books are damaged and in some cases stolen. When this happens the library will buy from you again especially if you have developed a relationship.
Here are three things you can do now to increase your chances of getting your books into libraries.
GET AN LCCN NUMBER
Most self-published writers don't know about getting a LCCN number. But this number is an added bonus when marketing to libraries. As most of them use it to catalog your book but also to place orders.
The LCCN is short for Library of Congress Control Number and it’s the number they use for cataloging books.
Negating the step by not having the number can delay your efforts.
CREATE A SALES SHEET
When you market to libraries put yourself in the librarians shoes. They see hundreds and sometimes thousands of books each month.
Although not all of these titles are because they are looking to purchase product from authors for their location, libraries are very busy.
Your job is to simplify the buying process by providing one sheet with the most pertinent information for your book. This includes how and where to buy copies.
START WITH THE LIBRARIES NEAREST YOU AND OFFER AN EVENT
Believe it or not some libraries prefer to purchase titles once they've met the author. And while you may believe you have anything to discuss in front of librarians and their patrons this couldn't be further from the truth.
People enjoy hearing from the author. They enjoy hearing their creative process. And even if you are a new author hearing how you started your career could be motivating for another hopeful.
So when you reach out to libraries start with the one nearest you. Then, offer to speak at their location. They may tell you originally that they won't buy any titles but when I've done this in the past I always sold books whether an order was placed or not.
IN THE END
You can definitely get your books in two libraries. And you can make quite a living for yourself too.
But you must put in the effort.
Unless you get a major book deal you alone are responsible for marketing your titles. And it's up to you to look at all options which are available.
The easiest but most flooding route is going only to the retailers. Which leaves plenty of money available from library resources for those who want a little more and are willing to put in time.
HERE ARE A FEW MORE RESOURCES
Publishing Digest: https://www.writersdigest.com/self-publishing-by-writing-goal/indie-authors-how-to-get-your-book-into-libraries-indie-publishing-tips
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