For book/ebook authors, publishers, & self-publishers

Local Bookstores

I recently contacted 5 local bookstores and 3 have agreed to sell some of my books. One of them will take the book on consignment. Has anyone had any problems with this type of agreement...is there any other way? The other two stores are owned by friends so there isn't an issue.

www.freewebs.com/cindyjost

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by ami r blackwelder on March 15, 2011 at 10:50am

I talked to bookstores too, and four agreed while one did not and no, problems . I made a lot of money form one, a bit from another and none from two thus far.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by A. K. Buckroth on March 15, 2011 at 2:42pm

My issue with the four separate, and only, bookstores I use is their non-communication. Unless I travel to inquire and literally see if my books are still on the shelf, no one comes forward to let me know. Even when I sent paper invoices, I had not received a word! I think this is rude. However, I am at my wit's end to further get my book out there. Sure, I do personal Book Signings/Speaks, am involved with three separate writers' clubs, social network like crazy, but still have to tame my time to write articles.
Yes, the fours stores sell on a 60% (me)/40% basis.
Good luck to all of us!
A. K. Buckroth
www.mydiabeticsoul.com

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by John Kremer on May 14, 2011 at 1:05pm

For a book like yours, you should be targeting diabetic websites and blogs. Focus 100% of your attention on that for one month, and you might be surprised by what happens.

Offer them good content - an interview, a free excerpt, a free ebook copy of the book for 10 of their readers, things like that.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by albertasequeira on April 20, 2011 at 5:40pm

I have books on consignment at two bookstores. I have no problem. In fact, I have a great friendship with one owner. I check at least every two months to see if they need more books; I drop by to just say hi. Is it worth it? Yes. If he has any event going on, he calls me to be invited. It takes time out of my day, but it's worth the time to acknowledge an owner carrying your book.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by John Kremer on June 15, 2011 at 11:54am

Want to know more about working with bookstores, check out the Ask the Booksellers website: http://www.askthebooksellers.com

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by John Kremer on September 7, 2011 at 6:46pm

The Ask the Booksellers website also includes listings of some independent bookstores: http://www.askthebooksellers.com

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Reno Lovison on September 13, 2011 at 2:59pm

I think the demise of some of the big box stores is going to be a big help to local independent bookstores. For authors and publishjers It means having to negotiate and mange various types of creative deals but in the long run there are people who want to see what new books are available and local stores can fill this need.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Sandra harvey on January 12, 2012 at 12:18pm

I'm new to marketing and really want to put my book into local bookstores. Can you give me a few tips on how to go about this, and ultimately, sell my book? Thank you!

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by John Kremer on January 15, 2012 at 2:45pm

It's tough to get into bookstores outside your own area.

As for your local bookstores in your city or area, go visit them - early when they first open and are not busy with customers. Ask them if you can do a talk at their store. Speaking at a bookstore is the best way to introduce yourself to the bookstore people and their customers.

Another great way: Book an appearance on a local radio show. Then tell the bookstore that you will mention them on air as the source of your book IF they will stock your book.

The Top 700 Independent Bookstores: http://www.bookmarket.com/top700.htm