Author success story

How can an indie author get their books into libraries?

Poet and author Emily Clarida has a dedicated Libraries & Educators page, as well as global distribution channels, Reedsy Discovery features, and a "100 Libraries" page that signals serious reach. She has a strong visual design to complement her personal reflections and poetry shared on the site.

Author at a glance

Emily ClaridaA book by Emily Clarida

Emily Clarida

  • Spiritual
  • Personal Growth
  • Poetry
emilyclarida.com

The Situation

Emily Clarida promotes her book in three very specific and clear ways. First, she makes it easy to signal how and why libraries should purchase her book. Second, she has a very global readership so makes international purchase options very visible with a custom page. Finally, she prominently sells signed copies from her site and visually signals this on her homepage with a call-to-action and photo of her signing books.

Why This Strategy Works

Emily solved the problem of a generic "buy my book" page failing to serve very different buyer types — libraries need a clear purchasing case, international readers need visible options that actually work for them, and collectors want the personal touch of a signed copy. By giving each audience its own clear path, she captures sales and interest that a one-size-fits-all page would lose.

How They Use Tertulia

  • Website
  • Custom Pages
  • Blog
  • Events Calendar
  • Direct Sales
  • Reviews

In Their Own Words

My author website gave me a more professional and polished appearance while making it easier for readers to discover my books and learn about my work. Tertulia helped create a welcoming space that better reflects my voice, my books, and my journey as an independent author. The website has been an important part of my recent growth and visibility.

Emily Clarida

Spiritual, Personal Growth, Poetry

Key Takeaways for Authors

  • Make it personal. Candid photos of you signing books, meeting readers, or at events add an authentic, compelling visual that generic stock photos can't match.
  • Make ordering easy and clear. Give readers obvious, friction-free ways to buy your book, including specialty paths like library ordering when relevant.
  • Showcase your credibility. Display reviews, awards, and accolades prominently so visitors get instant social proof that your book is worth their time.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I include on my author website?

    A dedicated bio, your book(s) with clear ways to buy, an email signup, and a blog or updates section to keep readers engaged between releases. In Emily's case, she also built out custom pages to engage librarians, a target audience for her.
  • Can I sell signed copies, bundles, or special editions on my site?

    Yes — your own site is the best place to offer exclusive items retailers can't.
  • How can I make my book easier for international readers to buy?

    Add a dedicated page listing international retailers, formats, and shipping or ebook options available in different regions, so readers outside your home country have a clear path to purchase.

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