With our Local Reads Collection, we are making it easier than ever for local and independent authors to get their new work into our collection, and for readers to find the latest local titles.
Authors can now fill out an online application form to have their book considered for our print collection. Successful titles, will be available to readers across our library system, and specially labelled so they are easily discovered and celebrated as a local read.
Check out our carousel below to browse our latest Local Reads titles and place a hold!
What is the criteria for the Local Reads Collection?
The focus of the collection is to highlight newly-published work by independent authors, such as those who have been self-published. The eligibility requirements can be found on the Local Reads information page.
When we submit a form, where does it go?
The form is sent to our Collections and Support Services team and is vetted according to the Collection Development Policy and the Local Author Automated Release Program (ARP). Successful titles will go to our vendor for processing.
Will the books in the Local Reads collection be available to all branches?
Yes. The goal is to highlight and share these authors across our entire system.
What if I have an eBook submission?
Local Reads is for print titles only and does not include eBooks. For eBook submissions, please contact our eResources Librarian at databases@virl.bc.ca to discuss adding your eBook to our collection.
VIRL makes all eBook purchases through OverDrive Marketplace, the bookstore for OverDrive/Libby. We are only able to purchase eBooks that are available in OverDrive Marketplace. eBooks can be made available for sale in OverDrive Marketplace by your publisher or eBook distributor. If you are unsure whether your book is available, we would be happy to check for you.
If your book is not available in OverDrive Marketplace, you may wish to ask your publisher to add it. If you are self-publishing and working with an eBook distributor, you may want to check if they add their books to OverDrive Marketplace for purchase by libraries.
Please note that all requests must adhere to our Collection Development Policy.
