Unlocking Library Shelves: A Strategic Guide for Authors to Expand Book Reach

Byline: [Your Name/Publication Name] | Date: October 26, 2023

Introduction:

For many authors, the ultimate goal extends beyond mere sales figures; it’s about ensuring their work reaches the widest possible audience. While traditional publishing houses often handle library distribution, independent authors and those seeking to proactively expand their book’s presence can take significant steps to see their titles gracing library shelves. This article delves into the often-overlooked strategies for getting your book into libraries, offering actionable advice, resources, and insights from seasoned author and editor, W. Terry Whalin. Whalin, a prolific writer and acquisitions editor, emphasizes that authors should not passively wait for their publisher but actively engage with the library system to maximize their book’s visibility and accessibility.

The Untapped Potential of Public and School Libraries

The sheer scale of the library system in the United States presents a vast, yet frequently underutilized, opportunity for authors. With over 120,000 libraries nationwide, including more than 100,000 school libraries, the potential for book placement is immense. Even focusing on the approximately 17,000 public libraries offers a substantial audience waiting to discover new titles.

"While there are many different ways and places to sell your book," Whalin notes, "I rarely see articles about how to get your book into libraries. In this article, I want to give you some ideas and resources for your books. If you are counting on your publisher or someone else to take these actions, I encourage you to use your own passion for your book to take action with libraries."

This proactive approach is crucial. Many authors mistakenly believe that simply donating a copy to their local library will result in its inclusion in the public collection. Whalin clarifies this common misconception: "If you put your book in the donation box inside the library, from my experience, those books go into a place where the library sells books to the public and not into the collection (where they are available to the public for years)." Libraries have established acquisition systems, and direct donations often bypass these processes, leading to a different outcome than intended.

Personal Experiences: Navigating the Library Landscape

Whalin shares personal anecdotes that illuminate the practical realities of library acquisition and collection management. He recounts how, upon the release of his biography of Billy Graham, he proactively inquired with his local librarian. This direct engagement resulted in his book being ordered and added to the library’s collection. However, he also candidly admits that library collections are dynamic, and his biography was eventually removed from that particular collection due to space constraints and circulation patterns.

This experience highlights a key aspect of library acquisitions: limited shelf space and the constant rotation of titles based on patron demand and relevance. "I understand libraries have limited space for books and their collection is always in motion," Whalin explains. Despite this, he found his book in a couple of other libraries, demonstrating that a single placement doesn’t preclude broader availability.

Further illustrating the complexities, Whalin details his search for his own books within his local library system. He discovered that one of his titles, "10 Publishing Myths," had three available copies, and he even added a five-star rating to its patron-generated reviews. However, his newer book, "Book Proposals That Sell," did not appear in the system. Using a library search tool called Prospector, he found an older edition of "Book Proposals That Sell" in one library, underscoring the importance of ensuring libraries have the most current versions of an author’s work.

The Power of Endorsements: Leveraging Reviews for Library Acquisition

A significant turning point for Whalin in his efforts to get "Book Proposals That Sell" into libraries came with a positive review from Midwest Book Review. Jim Cox, Editor-in-Chief of the publication, lauded the book as the definitive "how-to" guide for aspiring authors, whether pursuing traditional or self-publishing. This respected endorsement provided a powerful credential that Whalin could leverage.

"Midwest Review, a respected publication from libraries, reviewed Book Proposals That Sell," Whalin states. "Jim Cox, Editor-in-Chief wrote, ‘If you only have time to read one ‘how to’ guide to getting published, whether it be traditional publishing or self-publishing, Book Proposals That Sell is that one DIY instructional book.’"

This testimonial served as a compelling piece of evidence to present to librarians, demonstrating the book’s value and its potential appeal to patrons.

Strategic Action Steps for Authors

Whalin’s insights culminate in a series of practical, actionable steps that authors can implement to enhance their chances of getting their books into libraries. He stresses the importance of author-driven initiative and provides readily accessible resources to facilitate this process.

1. The Library Information Sheet: A Direct Approach

Whalin advocates for a tailored approach by creating a one-page library information sheet. This document is specifically designed to provide librarians with all the necessary details about a book, making it easier for them to consider it for acquisition. He has generously made his own template available for download, encouraging authors to adapt it for their own works.

"I reached out to my library reference librarian and asked her about how to get my new book into the collection," Whalin explains. "I sent this quote from Jim Cox at Midwest Review in my request and I took an additional step. I have prepared a one page library information sheet. If you check this sheet, you will see that it is targeted for libraries. Anyone can print this single page, then take it to their local library and request the book."

Action Step 1: Download Whalin’s one-page library information sheet template and present it to your local library. This direct approach, coupled with a compelling review or endorsement, can significantly increase the likelihood of your book being considered.

2. Templating Success: Empowering Other Authors

Recognizing that authors often need tools to replicate successful strategies, Whalin has also made the Word document version of his library information sheet available. This allows authors to easily customize the template with their book’s specific details, making it a universally applicable resource.

Action Step 2: Utilize Whalin’s template as a blueprint for your own book. Adapt the document with your book’s title, author name, ISBN, genre, a compelling synopsis, and any relevant reviews or endorsements. Share this template within your author network and encourage fellow writers to use it to promote their books to libraries.

3. Sustaining Visibility: Promoting Library Holdings

Acquisition is only the first step; ensuring a book remains in circulation requires ongoing engagement. Whalin emphasizes the importance of actively promoting library availability to potential readers, thereby demonstrating demand and encouraging continued library investment.

"After your book gets in your library, do your best to promote the library book to others, encouraging them to check it out and use the book (which will keep it in the collection)," Whalin advises. "For example, I belong to a local group of writers. Now that I know our local library has my 10 Publishing Myths, I will make a regular effort to tell the group and encourage them to check out the book and use it."

Action Step 3: Once your book is available in your local library, actively promote this availability. Share this information on social media, in author newsletters, and within relevant online and offline communities. Encourage patrons to place holds on your book, which signals demand to the library and can influence future purchasing decisions.

The Broader Implications for Authors and the Publishing Ecosystem

The strategy outlined by Whalin transcends individual author success; it points to a more collaborative and empowered approach to book promotion. By actively engaging with libraries, authors not only expand their reach but also contribute to the vitality of these community resources. Libraries, in turn, benefit from a more diverse and patron-driven collection.

"Libraries have budgets to purchase books for their patrons—especially ones they have requested," Whalin states. "As an author and a local user of your library, you can tap into this resource."

This proactive engagement can lead to several positive outcomes:

• Increased Readership: Libraries provide access to books for individuals who may not otherwise purchase them, fostering a broader reading public.
• Enhanced Discoverability: Placement on library shelves increases a book’s visibility and can lead to organic discovery by new readers.
• Author Credibility: Having a book in libraries lends a certain gravitas and legitimacy to an author’s work.
• Community Engagement: Authors who actively promote their library presence can build stronger connections with their local communities.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Authors

The journey of an author is often characterized by perseverance and a willingness to explore diverse avenues for success. W. Terry Whalin’s practical advice provides a clear roadmap for authors seeking to leverage the significant potential of library systems. By understanding library acquisition processes, utilizing powerful endorsements, and proactively engaging with librarians and patrons, authors can significantly expand their book’s reach and impact.

"Our lives in publishing are not easy but are possible," Whalin concludes. "I hope in this article along with part two next month, I’ve given you some ideas and encouragement to keep moving ahead. What steps are you going to take to get your book into libraries? Let me know in the comments below."

The opportunity to place your book into the hands of countless readers through libraries is within reach. By adopting Whalin’s strategic approach, authors can transform a passive wish into an active pursuit, ultimately contributing to a richer and more accessible literary landscape for all.

About the Author:

W. Terry Whalin, a seasoned writer and acquisitions editor based in California, has authored over 60 nonfiction books, including "Jumpstart Your Publishing Dreams" and "Billy Graham." He is also the author of the bestselling "Book Proposals That Sell, 21 Secrets To Speed Your Success." Whalin is an acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing and offers valuable insights and resources for aspiring and established authors. Connect with him on Twitter (@terrywhalin), Facebook, and LinkedIn. You can also subscribe to his newsletter for writing insights and a free ebook at [Link to subscription]. His recent book, "10 Publishing Myths," is available for a special price with bonuses. His website is www.terrywhalin.com.