Beyond the Shelf: Strategies for Authors to Secure a Place in Public Libraries

By Terry Whalin, Editor and Author

For authors, the dream of seeing their work grace the shelves of public libraries is a significant milestone, representing not just validation but also a tangible connection with readers. However, the path to library inclusion is often more nuanced than simply submitting a manuscript. This article delves into the strategic actions authors can undertake to not only get their books into libraries but also ensure they remain a vital part of the collection, accessible to a wide audience. Drawing on insights from library professionals and seasoned authors, we explore a comprehensive approach to library outreach and promotion.

The Demand-Driven Library: Earning Your Shelf Space

In an era where library collections are increasingly curated based on reader demand, authors must actively demonstrate the value and circulation potential of their books. Terry Whalin, an established editor and author, emphasizes that "As an author with a book in the library, you have to earn your spot for others to check out your book." This fundamental shift from passive placement to active earning is central to any successful library strategy.

A pivotal conversation with a local collection librarian revealed a critical insight: "We are a demand-driven collection, so everything on our shelves earns it’s spot!" The librarian further elaborated on the circulation expectations for non-fiction titles, noting, "Our nonfiction collection has an average turnover of five checkouts per year per book, so circulation needs to be close to that to either stay on our shelves, or if the book is damaged, then the library will need to repurchase." This data provides a concrete benchmark for authors to aim for, underscoring the necessity of consistent reader engagement. For fiction, while specific numbers may vary, the underlying principle remains: books that are actively borrowed are books that are valued by the library system.

A Multifaceted Marketing Plan: Proactive Steps for Authors

Recognizing the demand-driven nature of modern libraries, authors can implement a proactive, multi-pronged marketing plan to bolster their book’s presence. Whalin himself has adopted a more engaged approach, stating, "From my exchange with this librarian, I’ve created a plan to regularly plan to market my own books which are inside my local library. In the past, I’ve done nothing to encourage local people in the library to use my books. Now I’m going to regularly encourage my local writer’s group and others to check out and use my books from the library bookshelf."

This personal commitment to advocacy is a powerful starting point. Encouraging local writing groups, book clubs, and personal networks to check out and review books is a direct way to influence circulation statistics. Whalin stresses that this encouragement "doesn’t have to be sophisticated or fancy—but it does have to happen on a regular and consistent basis." This aligns with his overarching marketing philosophy of taking "100% responsibility for my own success."

H2: Cultivating the Art of Storytelling: Engaging Readers Through Narrative

Beyond direct marketing, the inherent quality of the writing itself plays a crucial role in a book’s enduring appeal and library longevity. "A second way to earn your right to be read is to learn the craft of storytelling," advises Whalin. "It is a developed skill to tell interesting stories." This involves mastering the interplay of dialogue and narration to create compelling narratives that captivate readers and encourage word-of-mouth recommendations.

Engaging local writers in discussions about their books, sharing anecdotes, and highlighting intriguing plot points can spark curiosity and prompt them to seek out the titles themselves. This approach not only promotes the book but also fosters a sense of community and shared literary interest. The ability to tell an interesting story about your book is, in essence, a marketing tool in itself, making the content more accessible and desirable.

H3: Integrating Library Visibility into Digital Presence

In today’s interconnected world, authors have a wealth of digital platforms to leverage for library promotion. "A third way to earn your spot is to incorporate the checking out of your book into different types of writing such as your blog, your social media posts and even your podcasts," suggests Whalin.

This means actively mentioning when a book is available at the local library in blog posts, social media updates, or podcast episodes. For example, an author could dedicate a blog post to the process of getting their book into libraries, encouraging readers to check it out from their local branch. Similarly, a social media campaign could feature photos of the book on library shelves, coupled with a call to action for followers to find and borrow it. This strategic integration ensures that the book’s availability is consistently communicated to a wider, digitally-connected audience.

H3: Innovative Library Promotion: Thinking Outside the Bookmark

Authors should also explore creative collaborations with library staff to enhance visibility. "A fourth way to earn your spot is to try different promotion methods with your library. For example, can you work with the local librarian to create a simple bookmark which they will give out at your library (and promote your book)?"

This proactive approach to partnership can yield significant results. Simple promotional materials, like bookmarks featuring the book’s cover and a brief synopsis, can be distributed by the library, introducing the title to patrons who might not otherwise discover it. The key is to present well-thought-out, easy-to-implement ideas to librarians.

Whalin offers a crucial perspective on setbacks: "Some of your ideas will be rejected or failed. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t. The ones who succeed keep going forward even when they are rejected." This resilience is paramount in any author’s promotional journey. The opportunities are abundant for those willing to "seize the day, keep your fingers on the keys and keep moving forward."

The Well-Worn Path: Learning from Successful Library Sales

For authors who aspire to sell their books directly to libraries, a structured and informed approach is essential. Whalin highlights a valuable resource: his printed book, "10 Publishing Myths," which includes an audio bonus featuring an interview with a self-published author who has achieved significant success selling thousands of books to public libraries.

This interview, and the broader wisdom within Whalin’s work, outlines a "well-worn path of success" for library sales. The process involves several key stages:

• Identifying Mentors: The first crucial step is to "find someone who knows the path and learn from them." This involves seeking out authors or industry professionals with proven experience in library sales.
• Gathering Essential Details: Once a foundational understanding is established, authors need to delve into specifics. This includes identifying which libraries are most likely to be receptive to their genre, understanding the purchasing cycles of different library systems, and learning the names of key acquisition librarians.
• Crafting a Compelling Pitch: A well-crafted pitch is vital. This involves clearly articulating the book’s value proposition, its target audience, and why it would be a valuable addition to the library’s collection.
• Order Fulfillment and Follow-Up: After securing an order, authors must be prepared to create invoices, package and mail the books efficiently, and, if necessary, follow up professionally.
• Replication and Refinement: The process is iterative. Authors should aim to perfect this system and then replicate it with librarian after librarian, continually refining their approach based on feedback and experience.

Whalin underscores that "It will take work and effort to sell your books. Each of you can sell your book into libraries—but only if you do the work." This direct sales model requires a different skillset and dedication than simply hoping a book will be picked up by a library distributor.

Actionable Insights: Turning Knowledge into Library Success

The advice offered by Whalin and the insights gleaned from library professionals serve as a powerful call to action for authors. The principle is simple yet profound: knowledge without application yields no results. "In my office, I have a series of writing craft how-to books which contain numerous insights. If I don’t read them then take action, they do nothing for me," Whalin admits.

For authors eager to see their books featured in libraries, the path forward is clear:

1. Embrace Proactive Marketing: Don’t wait for libraries to discover your book. Actively promote it within your local community and through your existing networks.
2. Understand Library Dynamics: Research the collection development policies of libraries and aim to meet their circulation benchmarks.
3. Harness Digital Platforms: Integrate library availability into your online presence to reach a broader audience.
4. Collaborate Creatively: Explore innovative promotional ideas with library staff.
5. Learn from Success: Seek out resources and mentors who have a proven track record in library sales.
6. Take Consistent Action: The most critical step is to consistently implement these strategies.

By adopting a strategic, informed, and persistent approach, authors can significantly increase their chances of not only getting their books into public libraries but also ensuring they remain a cherished resource for readers for years to come. The journey requires effort, but the reward of connecting with readers through the accessible gateway of the public library is immeasurable.