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Jim Cox at Midwest Book Review responded to the question Should authors get a fixed number of copies?

“Authors should get a fixed number of copies gratis. My own recommendation is five. One for the author’s own library. One for the author’s community library (my emphasis). One for the author’s family. One for the author’s own personally selected reviewer. And one for the author to take to work or play, in order to brag about it to their friends and colleagues.”

Until I read his article, I don’t know that I gave a lot of thought to donating a copy of my novel, PARK RIDGE, to the Des Plaines Library. On the other hand, I thought that the Park Ridge Library would be sure to want one. Wouldn’t they?

My experience at the Park Ridge Library was excellent. Vivian Mortensen replied to my offer of a copy of my book this way:

“Yes, we definitely would add it to the collection.  It’s very thoughtful of you. When you present it, please give us your address and we will send a formal thank you to you (you can use the donation for your taxes).  Also, we can put a plaque in the book.  If you have a special inscription, let us know.  Otherwise we will just put ‘Donated by the author, Cheryl Hagedorn’.”

I dropped the book off Wednesday morning, but unfortunately Ms. Mortensen was out of the office. She wrote me the next day:

“I heard that you dropped off the book at lunchtime.  Thank you.

“We have had people in the community ask us about this title. I’m sure your friends and acquaintances will really appreciate a copy to check out. Thanks again.”

Thanks to Ms. Mortensen and the Park Ridge Library experience, I parted with yet another copy for the Des Plaines Library. Now when my partner and I wander through the mystery section I just might see my very own book on the shelf of Hs.