Do you want to host an author or illustrator at your school?
Here are some quick tips for creating a meaningful experience for your students.
1. THE FIRST STEP
An author/illustrator visit can be small—for one class. It can be school wide. Talk to the teacher, principal, and PTA to generate enthusiasm for your visit. Begin to make a budget. If you’re your school has never done this before, discuss themes for your visit. Consider tying your visit to a holiday or curriculum. This is going to be fun! Everyone should be excited!
2. MAKE ME A MATCH
Now it’s time to look on the READ LOCAL website. Here you can find authors and illustrators of all genres. You can also download our spreadsheet of Local Authors and Illustrators with their email, website, and school district.
- Are you looking for someone to present to a large group or small classrooms?
- Are you hoping for a reading? A program about publishing? Something connected to a book that will promote literacy or empathy?
- How many presentations are you hoping for?
- Will you compensate the author or illustrator for lunch? Travel?
- Will there be time for questions?
3. NERVOUS? DON’T BE!
Try a Zoom Q and A session first. Many writers and illustrators offer free 20-minute Zoom sessions.
4. THERE ARE LOTS OF PLACES TO FIND FUNDING.
Talk to your administration and PTO. Thanks to the generosity of I-CARE, we also have some grants to apply for. You can also find sample contracts to help you make sure that you are signing up for the experience you want.
5. PUT IT ON THE CALENDAR
Once you have a date, funding, and a author/illustrator, start spreading the word! Make a flyer or email announcement.
6. THINK ABOUT BOOK SALES!
You can create your visit around a book fair, or order books ahead of time from the publisher or bookstore. Don’t be afraid to ask about discounts. Most important: save time in your schedule for book signing! There is no author or illustrator who will not be delighted to sign and personalize books!
7. GENERATE ENTHUSIASM!!
Display books! Read a chapter in class! Ask students to make posters and welcome signs. Help readers prepare introduction and questions.
8. GET READY FOR A WONDERFUL DAY!
Giving your readers the chance to meet a local illustrator or author can amp up the joy of reading. It can also strengthen your school community. It will be a day that they will always remember! (Don’t forget to bring a camera!)
9. TELL US ALL ABOUT IT.
We can feature your story on our newsletter! You can help us spread the word across Illinois that just like we love eating local…and shopping local…it’s great to READ LOCAL!!!
