3 Reasons to Love Your Local Librarian

Greetings from Connie Mann in still-sweltering Florida, here to talk about libraries and the wonderful librarians who staff them.

My love of books was born in my local library. During elementary school, I eagerly awaited the big lumbering bookmobile that used to whoosh to a stop near our home. I knew that once I scampered up those stairs, I entered a whole new world. Through books, I embarked on adventures to faraway places and made new friends to spend time with. That was where I first met Encyclopedia Brown, Nancy Drew, and Harriet the Spy.

Later, mom took us to the main library in our town, and I was wide-eyed to discover even more books and more adventures. Libraries were safe, welcoming places filled with other people who loved books.  I’ll be honest, we didn’t go to the bookstore very often. We couldn’t afford it. But the library? That was where magic could be found.

Today, I write a good portion of my books tucked in a cozy chair overlooking the pasture behind my local library. I know the librarians and they are always eager to know what I’m working on and when my next book is due.

I’ve been disappointed when I’ve heard writers say they don’t worry much about libraries. People there aren’t buying our books, after all. That makes me sad and I think that kind of thinking is a mistake.

Here are 3 Reasons to Love Your Local Librarian

Librarians LOVE books and writers.

I’ve never met anyone who worked at the library who hated books or reading. But I have found that librarians go out of their way to promote books they love AND writers they have a personal connection with. Our local librarian recommended me to the local radio station and they were quick to mention that connection when I did a radio interview with them.

Librarians recommend books.

When Angel Falls, my romantic suspense came out, there was a debate amongst the librarians about who got to read it first. If they love your book, they will recommend it to the patrons. I’ve often overheard them say, “If you like X author, you’ll probably also enjoy Y and Z author’s books, too.

They know other librarians

Through my local library connections, I’ve been invited to be part of author events and I’ve gotten quite a few speaking engagements. The librarians work hard to promote me and I’ve had a blast meeting readers and other writers.  I usually sell a good number of books afterwards, too. Even in our electronic age, people love to meet authors in person.

In the ever-changing publishing world where “discoverability” is harder than ever, don’t neglect this wonderful local resource. Get to know your local librarian! And tell them how much you appreciate all they do to promote books and reading!

Connie Mann is an author, blogger and boat captain. Her latest romantic suspense, Angel Falls, is set in her father's hometown in Brazil. When she's not at her local library writing, you can find her online at Busy Women Big Dreams or on the Silver River piloting a boat for her local school system. 

 

Comments

[Marti Pieper]

I love libraries and librarians (especially my cousin, a research librarian at Washington University). I can't imagine not using our local library. I've never thought of some of these relationship-building ideas, though, Connie. Thanks so much for sharing.

[Connie Mann]

You're so welcome, Marti! Hope they help...
Connie