Community Book Giveaways
How To Get Started Setting Up A Community Book Giveaway
Libraries, literacy organizations and collaborations of community partners across Canada will be hosting Books For Treats™ Canada from Vancouver Island to PEI this Halloween. There is some planning that goes into it all. But, we know you will be amazing hosts. Here is a collection of tools – everything from e-mails to get your partners together to press releases so the local media can get the word out. A book in every child’s bag! That’s what we hope for. Thank you for partnering with us!
1. Once you’ve decided to jump in, first make sure to read our Trademark agreement HERE so our name and the images we provide you are used to build community and continuity.
2. Now, gather your crew of organizations and individuals who are going to be a part of your event. There are many ways to do this. But, the best way to start is to send out a simple e-mail introducing folks to Books For Treats Canada and how it works. Here is a piece we wrote to introduce it on Vancouver Island in 2011 from which you are welcome to use bits and pieces.
3. The team is together, the planning has begun. Will you host one joint event? Several events at different locations? We recommend that you do your giveaway(s) in conjunction with larger community events. Is there a trick-or-treat event at the mall or in your downtown? Involve the library, book store or literacy organization located in or willing to set up at that location. Determine the time and date (most likely Oct. 31) and then register your event with Books For Treats Canada HERE. Then, you can direct folks to your listings page, which will have all the details they need including a map with directions.
4. Now, let the media know (early and often) what you are up to. Here is a release that introduces Books For Treats Canada and your local event to the public. Here is an example of a release about businesses collaborating. Here is another example of a release about giveaways and events happening in a collaborative environment. Often, you can ask your local paper or radio station if they will be a partner and even score some gratis or reduced-rate advertising.
5. Get those books coming in. Some groups have a good supply. Some hold book drives at schools or in the wider community. It’s totally up to you.
6. We can help you set up a Facebook or Twitter page. Here is an example of a local event FB page. Promoting the event within your organization and the community is important. We’ll promote you too through the main Books For Treats Canada social media networks.
7. On the day of the event, you can use our pre-designed bookmarks and posters to identify yourselves for folks (you get them when you register your event). If you have different books for different age groups, sort them into boxes based on age. Get creative and have a great time!
Download our full-color poster BFT_2012_CLRposter (PDF)
Black and White BFT_2012_BWposter (PDF)
(We recommend having them printed at your local Staples for quality and price-conscious printing)
Robin and the team are always available to lend a hand. Drop us a line through our Contact Page and we’ll work with you to make your event sing!
Books For Treats™ Canada is a program of Books For Treats™
