by Maggie Wallem Rowe

 Whether you are traditionally, hybrid, or self-published, what author doesn’t want to sell more books? It’s a financial boon to your publisher and certainly a blessing to you as the writer (not to mention your readers.)

I’ve had a national speaking and drama ministry for the past 35 years, but my first two books weren’t published until I was in my late 60’s. During those early decades, my merchandise table consisted solely of audio and videotapes of my presentations, followed by CDs and DVDs as technology evolved. The sale of these products was a welcome source of income for our ministry family.

In the last four years, my merch table has stocked my two book titles. I sell a modest amount of copies when teaching at writers’ conferences, but by far the biggest “back of the room” sales come during speaking opportunities at church outreach events, retreats, and inspirational conferences.

Here’s an annotated list of what I’ve learned to include on my table.

 Black tablecloth

Black makes your book covers pop. Sometimes a venue will provide a table covering for you, but if not be sure to take your own. A 90” x 132” rectangular cloth covers the average 30” x 96” banquet table. (If too large, you can fold it over.)

 Wire easels

Make sure to display copies of each of your titles vertically. You can set one atop a pile of others, or better yet purchase inexpensive black easels that fold flat for easy transport. These are available online or at office supply stores.

Clear acrylic holders for signage

I use 5 x 7 stands to display signs featuring each book cover and price, another to promote a special book bundle package for two or more (the most popular purchase), and still another with QR codes for payment options (PayPal, Venmo, Zelle.) Be sure to purchase holders with detachable bases so they lie flat for packing.

Retractable banner

Publishers use floor models of these at conventions, but for tabletop use I recommend one no larger than 11.5” x 18”. These are easy to design on Vistaprint or other outlets. Include your photo, contact information, social media handles and a QR code that links readers directly to your website.

Cash envelope

Back in the day, books were primarily purchased by cash or check, but there are many options today. I use a large leather zippered envelope stocked with five- and ten-dollar bills to make change, and a Square reader that plugs into my phone for credit card payments.

Business cards

Or promotional postcards with your ministry or website name, tagline, photo, and contact info.

Fine-point Sharpies

For signing. Avoid using gel pens for gift books with coated pages.

Sign-up sheet

For those wishing to subscribe to your mailing list.

Optional add-ons

For your table might include a dish of candy for browsers, battery-operated string lights, and “Autographed Copy” stickers.

How about you? What items have you found to be useful for your book table?  Please add to the conversation in the Comment section below.

Maggie Wallem Rowe is a national speaker, dramatist, and author whose first book, This Life We Share, was a finalist for the 2021 ECPA Christian Book Award in the New Author category. Maggie has also been a TEDx presenter. Her second book, Life is Sweet, Y’all: Wit and Wisdom with A Side of Sass, released from Tyndale House Publishers in 2022. Maggie writes weekly from Peace Ridge, her home in the mountains of North Carolina. MaggieRowe.com.