Bookstore consignment for the self-published author

In this article, Microsoft Bing Copilot and I will talk about bookstore consignment for the self-published author.

what is a bookstore consignment?

A bookstore consignment is an arrangement where an author or publisher provides books to a bookstore to sell on their behalf. The bookstore doesn’t purchase the books upfront; instead, they display and sell them, and the author or publisher gets paid only when the books are sold. Here are some key points:

1. Revenue Sharing: The bookstore takes a percentage of the sale price, typically around 40%, and the rest goes to the author or publisher.
2. Inventory Management: The author or publisher is responsible for supplying the books and may need to restock as needed.
3. Sales Tracking: The bookstore tracks the sales and periodically pays the author or publisher for the books sold.
4. Return Policy: Unsold books are usually returned to the author or publisher after a certain period.

This arrangement can be beneficial for self-published authors looking to get their books into local stores without the upfront cost of purchasing shelf space.

What Anna says

This is an accurate overview of how a bookstore consignment works.

how to develop and maintain a bookstore consignment as a self-published author

Developing and maintaining a consignment relationship with a bookstore as a self-published author involves several key steps:

Developing the Relationship

1. Research Bookstores: Identify local bookstores that support consignment deals, especially independent ones.
2. Prepare Your Book: Ensure your book is professionally produced, with a compelling cover and no errors.
3. Approach the Store: Visit the bookstore and speak with the manager. Introduce yourself as a local author and present your book.
4. Negotiate Terms: Discuss the consignment terms, including the percentage the bookstore will take from each sale. Typically, bookstores take around 40% of the retail price.
5. Sign an Agreement: Have a written consignment agreement to outline the terms and conditions.

Maintaining the Relationship

1. Promote Your Book: Actively promote your book to drive sales and increase its visibility in the store.
2. Monitor Sales: Regularly check in with the bookstore to track sales and restock as needed.
3. Engage with the Store: Participate in events like book readings or signings to build a stronger relationship with the bookstore and its customers.
4. Provide Updates: Keep the bookstore informed about any new releases or promotional activities that could boost sales.
5. Be Professional: Maintain a professional attitude and be responsive to the bookstore’s needs and feedback.

By following these steps, you can build a successful and lasting consignment relationship with a bookstore.

What Anna says

This is a good summary, although lacking in detail.

Most bookstores have information on consignments on their website, as well as contact details for the person who handles them. Be sure to include all information they request about your book, such as:

1. Title
2. Author
3. ISBN
4. Summary
5. Size/dimensions
6. Author bio

Some bookstores cater specifically for self-published and small press books, whereas larger chain bookstores tend to stock their shelves through a distributor, not through a consignment.

Whether to accept a consignment from an author is at the discretion of the bookstore.