Julie Broad explains why librarians reject most self-published books and how indie authors can change that. Focus on quality first, then optimize metadata, prove local relevance, build a consistent author bio across platforms, and create reader demand through talks and workshops.
We don't carry self-published books in our library. That's what a librarian told me when I was speaking at the American Library Association. I proceeded to list a dozen popular self-published books at the time, including David Goggins, Seth Godin, and so many more. And suddenly they realized they do carry self-published books. All right, so here are 5 things that actually get your indie book into a library. All right, so the first one, make the book good. No amount of metadata magic saves a bad book. A librarian can spot a mediocre cover in a split second. Number 2, fix your metadata so they can find you. Clean categories, a description that actually says who the book is for, a bio that matches everywhere. That's really what you need. Number 3, go local. Librarians search their vendor database for books that fit their community. So make sure you've put your local relevance right in that description. Number 4, prove you're credible. Your bio has to show you actually know your stuff, and it has to say the same thing everywhere. Your book, your website, your Amazon page. Inconsistent bios are a red flag that gets you skipped. Number 5, bring the demand. This is a big one. Reader demand is the single most powerful discovery tool there is. So don't just ask a library to stock your book. Offer to speak or do a workshop. Give the community a reason to walk in the door. Demand is what justifies a librarian's yes, especially when a book might be seen as a risk. Libraries are hungry. They want good books and they want stories that serve their community. They just can't carry what they can't find and they won't carry what isn't great.
Should You Skip Amazon When You Publish Your Book? #digitalmarketing #amazonauthor
