How to Request Paperback Books to Your Library

Yes, I’ve been on a “How to Help Wide Authors” kick lately, but most of what I’ve done revolves around eBooks. (I wrote blogs on Scribd and also on how to suggest books to Libby.)

Let’s talk about paperback books. (This also pertains to hardcover books.)

Some of us just prefer print.

We prefer it because a lot of us, and I include myself in this, started reading voraciously before eBooks existed. It’s what we’re used to. I also read in the pool or the bathtub, and I’m much more fearful of dropping an eReader in the water than a paperback that can be replaced easily.

There’s also nothing like the smell of books. Am I right?

So…How can you get your favorite authors’ books on the shelves of your local library?

#1- Keep in mind that libraries have a limited budget. Some of them work on shoestring budgets, so please don’t be angry at them if they choose NOT to buy your suggested book.

#2- Find the ISBN for the PAPERBACK version of your book. For example, Contact High’s ISBN can be found on its Amazon product page. Simply scroll down to the “Product Details” section and find the ISBN there. (Note – you do NOT need the ASIN. That’s the Amazon reference number. You only need the ISBN!!!)

#3 – Go to your library’s website and search for something like, “Suggest a Purchase.” This is what my library’s page to fill out looks like:

Your library may have different questions, but it should be very similar!

That’s it.

It is immensely helpful for authors if our books are purchased for libraries. Many people may think we lose money, and that is far from the truth. Libraries often pay 2-3x the list price for our books. We definitely get paid AND people check out our books and become fans! They buy our shorts on Amazon or ask the library for more of our books. Don’t sleep on this as a way to help us.

Here’s my shameless plug to get Contact High into yours….see how pretty it is! Wouldn’t it be gorgeous on your public library’s shelf?

And good news! Even if your favorite author’s eBook is in Kindle Unlimited, the exclusivity only applies to eBooks! Your favorite author’s paperback is allowed to be purchased in PAPERBACK format. For example, Meghan Quinn can’t have her eBooks in Libby because they are currently in KU. But your library can stock all the paperbacks of hers that they want.

Happy reading!