The Savvy Reader - Libraries


There are many ways to support your favorite authors. I’ve discussed this previously in the post How To HelpYour Favorite Authors/Books. Another big way is to make sure their books end up in your local library.


Most libraries have an online request form, such as this one for Hillsboro’s Main library: http://www.hillsboro.plinkit.org/web-forms/purchase-req. If it isn't immediately available on the front page of the library's website, it is usually found on the 'Contact Us' tab.

In order to complete the form you will need information such as, your library card #, the title of the book, author’s name and the reason why you think they should add it to their shelves.

Example:

The Wishing Well: Another Weaver Tale
Kai Strand
Second book in the series and you already carry The Weaver

Or

Save the Lemmings
Kai Strand
Main character has a refreshingly positive attitude

You can even request they place the title on hold so that you can read it first when it comes in. But since you already have your own copy, you can decline that service.

Small press authors and self published titles don’t get the distribution that others get and it is impossible for a librarian to see every book that’s published to make sound decisions on what to purchase, so they happily rely on their patrons. Please take the time to submit a request for each of my books with your local library and then remember this for other books you are surprised not to find on library shelves.

To make it easier for readers to find their local library online, here is a link to the public libraries database: http://www.publiclibraries.com

Comments

  1. Beverly Stowe McClureNovember 11, 2012 at 3:29 PM

    I will do this for the local library. It's small, but has a nice children's section. The larger library in Wichita charges $25 for a library card if you don't live in town, which I don't. Thanks for this reminder. It's a great idea.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kai Strand, AuthorNovember 13, 2012 at 8:22 AM

      Thanks, Beverly!

      I was surprised to find that some libraries charge a fee for inter-library loan requests. I'm so spoiled with my local library system!

      Delete

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