How to Get Your Book into Bookstores and Libraries
Writing a book is just the beginning—getting it into bookstores and libraries is what gives it wings.
For many authors, seeing their book on the shelves of a bookstore or library is a dream come true. But how do you make that dream a reality? With the right strategy, persistence, and a little industry know-how, you can get your book into the hands of readers beyond just online platforms like Amazon.
Whether you’re self-published or traditionally published, this guide will show you the steps to get your book into bookstores and libraries.
1. Make Sure Your Book is Professionally Published
Before approaching bookstores or libraries, your book needs to look and read like a professionally published work. This means:
- A compelling, well-designed cover (first impressions matter!)
- A properly formatted interior with no typos or errors
- A strong ISBN (International Standard Book Number)
- A well-written blurb on the back cover
- High-quality printing and binding (paperback or hardcover)
Bookstores and libraries won’t stock books that look amateurish, so take the time to ensure yours meets industry standards.
2. Get Your Book into a Wholesale Distribution Network
Most bookstores and libraries don’t order books directly from authors—they use wholesalers and distributors. If your book isn’t available through these channels, your chances of getting stocked are slim.
Some key distributors and wholesalers include:
- IngramSpark – One of the largest book distributors worldwide. If your book is available through Ingram, bookstores and libraries can easily order it.
- Baker & Taylor – A major supplier of books to libraries. Many libraries prefer ordering through them.
- Amazon Expanded Distribution – While not as widely used by bookstores, it can still help with library access.
Make sure your book is listed with these distributors to increase your chances of getting stocked.
3. Research Local Bookstores and Libraries
Instead of randomly pitching your book, do your research:
- Visit local bookstores and see what kind of books they carry. Do they stock self-published books? Do they have a special section for local authors?
- Look at their website to see if they have guidelines for submitting books.
- Check library catalogs to see what genres they focus on.
Start local—independent bookstores and libraries are more likely to support a local author than big chain stores.
4. Create a Professional Sales Sheet
When pitching your book to bookstores and libraries, you need a one-page sales sheet that includes:
- Your book cover (high-quality image)
- Your book title, author name, and ISBN
- A short, engaging book description
- The book’s genre and category
- Retail price and wholesale discount (bookstores expect at least a 40% discount)
- Ordering information (e.g., “Available through IngramSpark and Baker & Taylor”)
- Your contact details
This sheet makes it easy for bookstore owners and librarians to decide if they want to carry your book.
5. Offer a Wholesale Discount and Return Policy
Bookstores won’t stock your book unless they can profit from it. Typically, bookstores expect a 40–55% wholesale discount off the retail price.
Also, many bookstores only stock books that are returnable. This means they can send unsold copies back to the distributor. If your book is listed as non-returnable, bookstores may be hesitant to take a chance on it.
When publishing through IngramSpark, you have the option to:
✅ Set your book as returnable
✅ Offer a standard wholesale discount
These two settings significantly increase your chances of bookstore placement.
6. Reach Out with a Personal Touch
Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to approach bookstores and libraries. Here’s how:
- Visit in person – Bring a copy of your book and your sales sheet. Ask to speak with the manager or book buyer.
- Call ahead – If you can’t visit in person, call to ask about their book submission process.
- Email a professional pitch – Keep it short and engaging. Introduce yourself, share why your book would be a good fit, and attach your sales sheet.
Example email:
Subject: Local Author Book Submission – [Your Book Title]
Dear [Bookstore Manager’s Name],
I’m a local author based in [Your City], and I recently published a book, [Your Book Title]. Given your store’s interest in [genre], I believe it would be a great fit for your shelves.
The book is available through IngramSpark with a standard wholesale discount and returnability. I’d love to drop off a copy for your consideration or discuss a potential book signing event.
I’ve attached a sales sheet with more details. Please let me know a convenient time to connect. Looking forward to your thoughts!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Info]
7. Leverage Events and Book Signings
Many independent bookstores love author events because they attract customers. If a bookstore is hesitant to stock your book, offer to do a:
📚 Book signing – Bring copies to sell, and the store keeps a portion of the sales.
🎤 Author talk – Discuss your book’s theme, writing journey, or related topics.
📖 Live reading – Engage the audience with an excerpt from your book.
By proving you can bring an audience, bookstores will be more willing to carry your book.
8. Get Libraries to Stock Your Book
Libraries work differently from bookstores. Here’s how to get your book into them:
📌 Request a Patron Purchase – Many libraries have a “suggest a book” feature on their website. Encourage readers to request your book.
📌 Submit to Library Distributors – Make sure your book is available through Baker & Taylor or OverDrive (for eBooks).
📌 Contact the Library Director – Reach out to the acquisitions librarian with your sales sheet and a request for consideration.
📌 Donate Copies – Some libraries accept donated books, especially from local authors.
Hosting an author event at a library can also help get your book added to their collection.
9. Promote Your Book’s Availability
Once your book is in bookstores or libraries, let people know!
- Post on social media: Exciting news! My book is now available at [Bookstore Name]! Stop by and grab a copy!
- Add a “Where to Buy” section on your website listing all bookstores and libraries that carry your book.
- Encourage readers to leave reviews—this increases demand and makes stores more likely to stock your book.
Final Thoughts
Getting your book into bookstores and libraries requires effort, but it’s possible with the right approach.
✅ Make sure your book is professionally published.
✅ Distribute through wholesalers like IngramSpark and Baker & Taylor.
✅ Pitch local bookstores and libraries with a well-crafted sales sheet.
✅ Offer book signings and events to increase visibility.
With persistence and strategy, you can expand your book’s reach far beyond online sales!
👉 Have you tried getting your book into bookstores or libraries? What has worked for you? Share your experience in the comments! 🚀📚