As an author, one of the greatest joys is knowing that readers are enjoying your work. That's why it's important for authors to not only write great books but also to ensure that their books are accessible. One way this happens is when readers, like you, make requests with their local libraries to carry copies of their favorite authors' books!
Libraries have always played a vital role in society by providing access to books, knowledge, and resources for everyone, regardless of their financial situation. For many people, especially those who cannot afford to purchase books or access them digitally, libraries are a lifeline to the world of literature.
And when I have asked Librarians what the biggest factor is in what convinces them to purchase a book for their catalogue, almost all of them say "when a patron submits a request." That means that YOU have the biggest influence on what shows up on your local libraries shelves.
By requesting your favorite author's books at your local library, you can help ensure that more readers have access to their stories. It's a simple and free process that can make a big difference in your community. And it's also a plain awesome way to support the creatives you love most.
Never requested a book before? Here's how you can do it in three easy steps.
Step 1: Find your local library
The first step is to find your local library. You can do this by searching online, or using your phone's GPS app to search in your community. Once you've found your library, take note of their contact information.
Step 2: Ask a librarian to order the book
The next step is to ask a librarian to order the book you want to read. You can do this in person, over the phone, or by using your library's online request form. Be sure to provide as much information about the book as possible, including the title, author, publisher, and ISBN number. The more information you provide, the easier it will be for the librarian to find and order the book.
Step 3: Wait for the book to arrive
Once you've made your request, the library will take care of the rest. They will order the book from their supplier and add it to their collection. Depending on how busy the library is, it may take a few weeks or even a few months for the book to arrive. But rest assured, the library will notify you when the book is ready for pickup.
Requesting books at your local library is not only a great way to support your favorite authors, but it's also a way to support your community. Libraries are often the only place where people can access books, especially in areas where there are few bookstores or where online access is limited. By requesting books at your local library, you are helping to ensure that everyone in your community has access to literature.
Plus, libraries offer more than just books. They are often community centers that offer a wide range of services and programs, from computer access to job training to children's storytime. By supporting your local library, you are supporting the community as a whole.
In addition to supporting your community, requesting books at your local library also supports the publishing industry. When a library orders a book, they are essentially placing a bulk order, which can help support the author and the publisher. This can also help the author's book gain more visibility, which can lead to more sales and a wider readership.
But, keep in mind that libraries often have limited budgets and can only order a certain number of books each year. By requesting your favorite author's books, you are letting the library know that there is a demand for their work. This can encourage the library to order more copies of the book or to order more books by the same author in the future.
In conclusion, requesting books at your local library is a simple and effective way to support your favorite authors, your community, and the publishing industry as a whole. It's a free service that can make a big difference in the lives of readers everywhere.
Don't forget, you can always request a futuristic fairy tale from my catalog. Check out my list of books here for some inspiration.
Happy reading!
