How can you get local bookstores/libraries to purchase your self-published book?

Question

I have a self published book and, though it is not under my actual name (I used kind of an alias, though it is a nick name), I would like for it to be sold locally (and preferably nationwide). How could I go about getting that done? Also, could I call the local newspaper to make an article about it as well?

Answer 1

Most self-published books are not sellable. If they were, then the author would have been able to get a publisher to pay for them.



Sometimes, an author can sell some books if the books are about a local interest...a local historic place, for instance. For the most part, though, no bookstore is going to want to carry a self-published book, unless we personally like the book and/or author. Why should we? It's hard enough to move the books that are well-advertised.

Answer 2

You have no idea how to promote a book it seems. Do you have a website? (not

Wattpad) Do you have an agent?

Yes, you can call the local newspaper. A small town paper might run an article. You could also ask a local bookstore that isn't part of a chain if you can do a book signing there.

The best thing, however is for you to donate copies of your book to libraries, hospitals and other facilities.

Unless your book is a spectacular read you probably won't sell very many at all. If it was good enough, a major publisher would have picked it up. This is the thing with self-publishing. You invest the money are don't get it back and the job of promoting a book is yours.

Answer 3

Unfortunately for you, self-published authors are a dime a dozen and local libraries and bookstores are not likely to be interested. If you have a strong local following and proven sales, they might consider it. If you're just another nobody in town (like a majority of us are) don't count on them buying your book.



As for the newspaper, again, if you have a local following it's possible they'll write a small article about you (notice: it's WRITE an article, not make one unless you're referring to clothing). Odds are high they won't unless you and/or your book are both newsworthy.



I wouldn't get my hopes up if I were you. Instead, work on building a loyal following of readers. While you're at it, get started on your second novel. Don't sit idle hoping people will pay attention to you. I wish you luck. It won't be easy but you can at least try.

Answer 4

You go beg them.

They reply either "sorry, we do not stock self-published book" or "you may leave a couple of copies on our local authors shelves at the back".

Answer 5

In addition to the above answers: If you're lucky, you might find a small(ish) local bookstore, willing to stock a few copies of your book on a 'sale or return' basis.

Not sure about local newspapers. As it's a self-published book, you might have to place an ad., for which you will have to pay.

Answer 6

Try not self publishing it.

Answer 7

That is a really good question, since I might be in the same place as you if I complete a project/book. Here are a couple links. Of course, marketing is one of the major issues with SPB. Can you add info on where you got yours printed? Was it with a vanity publisher, or did you print it, yourself?



http://www.ehow.com/how_4473867_market-self-published-book.html



http://www.ehow.com/how_4604349_market-self-published-books.html



http://www.mediabistro.com/galleycat/how-to-sell-your-self-published-book-into-bookstores_b51732



Good luck, and of course the rest of us will be watching for the answers to your question.