Tips for Attendees
It can be overwhelming and intimidating to meet your favorite author. Can you say “Fan Girl”? Then there are the authors you don’t know. What do you say to them? Do I have to make eye contact?
So here is a little help for attendees. Remember, it’s all about the books. And the fun. And don’t forget the flamingos!
How do I talk to authors?
Authors are just regular people who have great imaginations and a heart for sharing the people who live in their head. Ok, so maybe they’re not so regular. But they have spent a lot of their own money to come to a book signing to be there for YOU! They love meeting their readers. So talk to them! Even if there is a line, authors go out of their way to have a meaningful conversation with event attendees.
But what if I haven’t read their books?
It’s ok if you haven’t read a book by an author. Talk to them anyway. They want to meet new readers. Try one of these lines…
I haven’t read your books yet…
* your covers are beautiful. What kind of characters do you write?
* which one should I start with?
* what genre do you write?
* Amazon/GoodReads/a friend has recommended you to me.
Don’t be anxious to talk to an author you haven’t read. That’s how they meet new readers and you find your next favorite book.
What can I get signed?
All Traveling Bookshelf attendees will receive a tote bag and a 12×12 signing card suitable for framing. Readers are so clever and creative. We have seen autograph books, pillows, shirts, eReader covers, and so much more. Of course, there are always the old stand-by, books.
What if I am a Blogger/Social Media Influencer?
Fab! Bring cards with your website or social media contact to give to them. They want to help you help them. Having the card helps them remember who they have talked to. Being an influencer does not give you any specific privileges like line skipping, etc. Everyone who recommends a book to a friend is an influencer in some way. We all love to get and give recommendations and we appreciate the people who use their talents to produce content for all of us.
What about “swag”?
Authors spend a lot of money having their swag designed and printed. They want you to take it. Just don’t take it by the handfuls or walk up and take swag without talking to the author.
Can I bring books into the event?
Yes, you can bring books you have already purchased in. The Traveling Bookshelf does not have a limit on books. You do not have to check your “brought from home” books in or out.
How do I purchase books from an author? What is a pre-order?
If you are purchasing a book from an author at the event, plan to use debit, credit, or cash. If you want a specific book from an author, the best way to assure they have that book waiting for you is to pre-order it. Each author hosts their own pre-order and those can be picked up at their table. Not all authors offer that feature. Authors, especially those with a large catalog, may not bring multiple copies of every book they have written. For The Traveling Bookshelf, there is a list of pre-orders on our website. Pre-orders also allow you to spread your book budget over several months instead of all one day.
What do I do with all those books I just got signed?
The Traveling Bookshelf is offering a complimentary Bag Check Station. Once you have filled your tote, you are welcome to take it to your room or car and come back. Or you can utilize the Bag Check located in the lobby. A hotel employee will check your tote and give your ticket just like they would a suitcase they were holding for you. The Bag Check Station will be locked and monitored.
Pics & Hugs
Or course you want a picture and a hug with the authors. Just ask politely. Be aware that some authors may have small children, allergies, etc. If they decline to take a picture or give hugs, it is for a good reason like flu season. The Traveling Bookshelf is set up to provide ample room for you or authors to move around the table or lean across.
Remember to ask for hugs. Consent matters.
What if something goes wrong and I am not happy?
We have spent so much time planning for every contingency. But, of course, something may go wrong. Please calmly find a volunteer and let them know what has happened. Give us a chance to fix it for you. We want you to have a great time. We have spent over a year planning for this to be a memorable event. Please be respectful of the volunteers, organizers, and other guests so everyone can have a wonderful time. We are readers first and love these events as much as you do.
What if an author has a long line?
As you register, you can pick up line wristbands for those authors we have identified as ticketed authors. Picking it up during registration will prevent you from having to run to different lines to gather your wristbands. There may be authors that we add as ticketed during the event. You can pick up wristbands from their line monitor in the event room.
There will be line monitors and 3 screens around the event space for you to keep track of when you need to line up. The Traveling Bookshelf wants you to meet new authors and not spend your time waiting in line.
What about when the event is over?
Please help out the event organizer and authors by posting pictures, tagging, and letting people know how much fun you had! Not only does this help the event organizer and authors, but BONUS, it makes your friends want to join you for the next one.