Did you know that most bookstores book out their event calendar 6 months in advance?
Or that popular bookstores receive hundreds of event requests per month from authors?
Or that almost all of them require your publication date to be within 2 weeks to 1 month of your launch?
If you want to launch your book at a specific bookstore, you have to start pitching early. And you have to make your pitch compelling.
Many bookstores, both independent and chain, will only feature authors in certain genres (i.e. literary fiction) but won’t feature authors from other genres (i.e. self-help or business books).
Just like publishers, they want to be sure you come with your own audience– a local network that will show up to support you as well as a larger following for your work.
Some of them will require you to sell books on consignment, provide your own books, or will take a large cut from your profits.
They may also want you to have a host or facilitator, often another popular author in your genre.
If you’ve got this lined up, start contacting the managers of the bookstores you’re interested in to see what their specific requirements are and how to best apply to be featured. Make sure to spell out your audience, your marketing and PR strategy for the event, and how you plan to get people in the room.
You’ll also need to convince them that your work is compelling and unique and deserves to be highlighted.
If you can’t land a store in the area you’d like, consider renting a space. Many authors have succeeded putting together amazing and profitable book launches at restaurants, bars, and local stores.
Platforms like Peerspace also have great (and often inexpensive) options.
Remember, you may love the idea of launching at your favorite store, but you and your team will be doing the bulk of the marketing and PR regardless. It may even work to your benefit to book someplace else.
Have more questions? Reach out and we can see how I can help you on your road to book launching success!
