Prior to my book Clutterology being published, I started to pre-sell the book. Having previously done a free program for the Los Angeles Public Library (downtown) and the Burbank Public Library, with their thank-you letters in hand, I decided to offer my seminar to other libraries in the area.

I purchased a mailing list of main libraries and wrote a wonderful cover letter, "How would you like a free seminar on getting organized?" The idea was that they would invite the public to their location and let me sell books in the back of the room.

Well, the results weren’t what I expected. One library called me to see if I wanted to rent their facilities. One librarian called and asked if I would do it for their staff. I had already made the offer so I couldn’t back out now. Yes, a staff presentation would be fine. How about 6 different locations. Open mouth, insert foot. Well, OK.

The first program went OK, but it took a little while for me to figure out librarians. By the 2nd and 3rd programs, I was actually having fun and getting great ideas that I used in my book.

The meeting planner was wonderful to work with. During the introduction, she would mention that I was here gratis. The librarians were surprised and amazed at that fact, so they purchased a few audio tapes (for themselves and for the library-with their own money).

Lesson’s learned:

1. I did not understand the business and purchasing structure of the organization before I spoke.
2. Because the librarians were so pleased with the presentations, my book went on their preferred purchasing list and that list went out to the whole district. They ordered our books from the distributor. Since the library requested the books, the distributor came to us asking if they could handle our books.
3. Learn as much as possible about the organization before committing. You could end up with a lot of unpaid programs if you’re not careful.