If you're a self-published author trying to get your book into bookstores, why not get it into a library first?Your book will be more well-known and easier to sell to bookstores if you use libraries as a marketing tool.
Step 1: Make sure your book is high quality.
Many people don't like self-published books because they think they're low quality.Make sure your book is formatted correctly.libraries generally won't stock books with that are comb bound, spiral bound or saddle stitched.It's a good idea to ask your local library what they need.Many people judge a book by its cover, so make the cover professional and interesting.
Step 2: Your book should be promoted.
To get the word out and show you're serious, start promoting your book before contacting libraries.Make sure the website you create looks professional.
Step 3: Be professional.
If you want to donate copies of your books to the library, you need to find out who the acquisitions librarian is and call, email, or set up a meeting with her.Chances are it will end up in a book sale if you just put your book in the donations bin.Don't be rude, professional, and respectful.If she is unsure about your book, give her a copy.
Step 4: You should be prepared to give a few copies.
Non-profit libraries like to accept donations.Most libraries require you to donate more than one copy of your book, as it costs money to catalogue it, and is only worth their time and money if there's multiple copies in their library.You can inquire about the special systems or sections in the library for self-published local authors.
Step 5: You can get a review.
Get your book reviewed in order to get the attention of the librarians and the general public.You can get a review from Library Journal, CHOICE, Booklist, Publishers Weekly, or Kirkus Reviews.flyers about your book will be sent to local libraries for a fee.
Step 6: You can ask others to request your book.
It's a good way to get the libraries to put your book on the shelves.Ask your friends and family to read your book.They won't be happy if you waste their time with fake requests, and librarians can tell which requests are real and which are fake.
Step 7: Continue to promote your book.
Your fight isn't over once you get the book in the library.If books don't circulate well, libraries will usually remove them from the shelves.Make sure to promote your book as much as possible in order to get people to read it.