Last month I dealt with having book sales and signings outdoor. Needless to say, indoors is easier as there will always be bathrooms handy and thank God, climate control. If the distance isn't too great, I usually go to these events if there is no charge for the space. Nearly always a table and chair is provided so less to haul. Still, have a light weight dolly to help transport heavy boxes of books. Some convention center are vast, and it is a long way to get to your place.
Libraries are always pleasant, but don't expect sales. Best I've ever done was three books. People come to libraries to check out books for free. I've had many tell me they'd read the library copy when it got on the shelf, not always a guarantee as the library is in no way obligated to buy your titles. If you donate copies, they may or may not reach the shelves. Truly, I've seen library patrons walk the long way around to avoid the authors parked in a hallway or meeting room. Library venues also expect the authors to stay most of the day, say from ten to three, right through the lunch hour. Some will provide a bottle of water. Others have really nice author's lounges set up with everything from pastries and yogurt to hot coffee and cold drinks. You might inquire about this and be prepared to take snacks or troll the tables where cookbook authors give out free samples. Truly, only children's books sell well in libraries, especially if the authors are stationed near the children's department. However, you do meet others authors and a few might buy your book. Mostly I give out postcards with the cover on the front, blurb on the back along with order and contract information.
Convention aren't the best places for selling either. I've done many library conventions and can tell you librarians want cheap or free books. They rarely buy but will take book cards and order later perhaps. Big name authors are situated in the middle of the fray, autographing and selling books at a deep discount provided by their NYC presses. Usually, the authors of small presses or the indie published are relegated to the outer edges of the venue where traffic is light. Because the event is indoors, this is the time to use those banners and any other attention getting gimmicks you might have. I once sat next to very nice lady, first time author, trying to sell a family memoir. She had wonderful vintage clothing on display, and many stopped to look at it. Sales, not so much, and she had piles of her single title on her table. I could feel her disappointment, but consoled her by saying many had picked up her bookmarks and might buy later. I don't bother with fancy displays much anymore--or cookies and candy giveaways. People swoop in, grab, and are on their way. One child with sticky fingers can do serious damage to your books. No, I have plenty of titles and the gift of gab, that's all.
A nice perk of doing conventions is the availability of great exhibitor's lounges with free coffee and drinks, sandwiches, snacks, fruit, etc. Conventions centers will also have snack bars and perhaps even hot dog carts and restaurants. You will not go hungry at these affairs. Again, not lots of sales, but fun meeting other authors. The time span might be very short, just an hour or two, to accommodate all who want to sign. Five minutes before your time ends, you will be reminded you must back up and leave in a hurry to let the next guy set up. This is another reason to have a simple setup. I can take mine down in a very short time. Setting up of course takes longer and eats into your time. Go simple.
Though your time might be short, usually you can find a place to stow your stuff and enjoy some of the other exhibits. I once had a long conversation to a writer of medieval mysteries that I just loved. I stopped to get a signed copy and as she had no one else in line, we got to talk for quite some time. Yes, even midlist authors appreciate some attention. Give it too them if you have the time to spare.
One last thought, if you can give a program or lecture, you will sell more books, but usually these slots are filled well in advance. Yet, do offer and have some talks prepared and a press kit ready to go. You never know when an opportunity will come your way.
