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How to Get a Bookstore to Carry Your Books

Getting a publisher for a book is just the beginning for most authors. The next step is to get it to readers, which means it must be available through booksellers. Most publishers work with a distributor, which should do most of the work with stores. If the publisher does not have a distributor, this responsibility falls on the author. The policies of a national chain may be different from the policies of an independent bookstore, but there are some basic things every author should know.

Instructions

    • 1

      Every book must have the an International Standard Book Number. The ISBN serves as a license plate for the book. You must know that number. If you do not have a ISBN, apply for one at isbn.org.

    • 2

      The book also needs a bar code. The industry uses the Bookland EAN code, not the UPC.

    • 3

      Make up business cards that list the title of your book, your name, your email address, the book's ISBN number, the publisher's contact information and the distributor's information. This makes it easy for a bookstore manager to find your work on a computer system.

    • 4

      Set up a meeting with a local bookstore manager or regional buying manager. Bring a copy of the book and a media kit. Present sales, reviews and other pertinent information to the manager. Be prepared to explain why the business should stock your book. Some bookstores, like Barnes & Noble, require all vendors to sign a compliance certification.

    • 5

      Offer to do signings at the bookstore. If you do have a publisher or agent, let the bookstore manager know how to reach that person.

Book Publishing

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