@DiAnnMills

We’ve successfully written a book and prepared it for publication.
We’ve labored through edits and sometimes rewrites.
We’re pleased with the cover.

We’ve developed a marketing and promotion campaign that reflects our passion for the book. But sometimes what looks easy can be the most difficult. Our strategy looks grand on paper, and we’ve calendared when to work through each step. Then we’re stumped when we’re ready to move forward professionally.

Here are 5 ways you can partner with bookstores.

1. Bring bookmarks to the store. Ask to speak to the manager or PR person. If your book is in the ordering system, thank them for carrying it. If you’re a new author to the store, provide a book for them. Always ask someone to take your and the store person’s photo and tag them on Facebook and other social media platforms.
2. On release day, deliver donuts or bagels and cream cheese to your favorite local bookstore. Add a note: Thank you for reaching out to readers with my book. You are appreciated!
3. Offer to hold an event in which you can provide a reading, a writer’s life talk or writer workshop, and walk with the bookstore every step of the way. Be prepared with a plan to make the bookstore’s event a positive experience.
4. Follow bookstores on social media. Make it a point to comment on what’s going on in their store.
5. While in between book releases, stop by bookstores—say hello, bring goodies, or simply thank them for their hard work.

Writing is not a solo venture. We need to partner with all those in the publishing industry and thank them for their service.

How do you show appreciation to bookstores?