Published a Book? Get Into Libraries!

Easier than writing it 

My new children's book "Prissy Little Chloe" is starting out in libraries across Toronto. I'm really excited about that -- namely, it's far easier than I thought it would be!

First Contact

Once you've gotten your book in print, do a Google search (or your search engine of choice) for any local libraries.

On their site under the "Contact Us" tab, you should be able to click on their email address (if it's not hyperlinked to open up in your mail application, simply copy and paste it.)

Next, shoot them an email of course! This is sometimes more efficient than a phone call, as it gets redirected to the department that can help you best. 

Here's what I say:

Hello, 

What process does the _____ Library go through to order books? (if you're self-published) Would you consider Amazon-published ______ books? Thank you!

or 

Hello, 

What process does the _____ Library go through to order books? (if you're traditionally-published) Would you consider _______(link to book listing) from my publisher? Thank you!

Method to the Madness

Now it is very brief, but I prefer the term concise. A direct question yields a direct response. 

You can add all the marketing fluff once you get the response.

That's reason you don't link to your self-published book in the first email. 

You want to come off as professional and genuinely interested in a mutual benefit; then you can sell to them.

Knock and the door shall be opened

Or put simply, once you get an answer, it has two potential outcomes: no, they don't accept self-published books/are not interested in your book at this time or yes -- and they want to know more.

In that event, pitch to them; send them all the details (easier with a link) and most importantly, why they need your book in their library. If you have a fantastic book, this could be easily put in a sentence or two. 

They pay you!

When they request to buy your book, you can deliver the order personally if it's a local library -- or ship it and include the expenses in your invoice to them. 

You are a publicly-published author! Hurray!