Author visits

Many librarians are able to use PTO or other funds to invite authors to visit their schools.  Both the Tulare County Office of Education and Visalia Unified have had many visits over the last few years. 

Some tips about having an author visit:

• Remember that they are human, even though you may be paying them a lot. Treat them like kings or queens and they will want to come back.  Do not overwork them - ask them how many assemblies they are comfortable with. Visiting schools is the main way most of them make their living.
• Assign a "cheerleader" from the teaching staff at each site.  Ideally a respected teacher, this person will encourage the other teachers to read the author's books and make banners, posters, have contests, and in general increase enthusiasm for the visit.
• Assign a "facilitator" at each site.  This person will help with the author's comfort by anticipating needs and making sure the book signing goes smoothly.
• Involve parents early. Parents can increase the enthusiasm for and support of an author visit.
• Arrange for book sales.  Publishers will usually give you 40% off books to sell during the visit and let you return extras for free.  Authors are usually willing to sign their books.

The following web sites have lots of information about hosting an author visit:

• http://www.cbcbooks.org/html/visits.html - Tips and links from the Children's Book Council.
• http://www.tonibuzzeo.com/visits.html - Pay special attention to the "Terrific Visits Tip Sheet."
• http://www.scbwinorca.org/successful_school_visits.html - Tips from the Society of Children's Books Authors and Illustrators of Northern California.
• http://www.education-world.com/a_sites/sites063.shtml - Education World provides some links to find and host authors.
• http://childrensbooks.about.com/cs/visits/ - Many good links.
• http://www.poetryteachers.com/authorvisit/authorvisit.html - Tips for a successful visit by a poet.

How to find authors to visit your school:

1. Go to conferences like CRA, CATE, and especially California School Library Association.  National conferences like the American Library Association yield even more author contacts.
2. Look for your favorite authors on the Internet.  Your best bets are authors who haven't quite "made it" - once they win a big award they don't have to visit schools; they can concentrate on writing.
3. Look at publisher's web sites. Here's a list: http://www.cbcbooks.org/html/visit_contacts.html
4. Try organizations such as the Society for Children's Book Writers and Illustrators: www.scbwi.org and www.authorsillustrators.com