Meet the Author Book Night
A PTA Fundraiser thats Win-Win

by Chichester Book Club
(West Sussex)

This is a PTA fundraiser we have organised, called 'Meet the Local Author'. Hosted by the school, it's an evening of readings, conversation and Q&A with local writers, at which guests can buy the books and get them signed by the authors.

The school is charging £5 per ticket (to include a glass of wine), and has involved the local library, book clubs and book shops to help promote the event and sell tickets.

Hopefully it's win-win event - the school raise much needed funds, and the authors gain local exposure and new readers.

Neill Wilkins from better-fundraising-ideas.com adds - This is a great idea. Book clubs are really popular and a great way to engage with people. This PTA group (and it would work for all sorts of other charity groups) were fortunate that they had 3 local authors to connect up with and plan this event. It shows the value of keeping abreast of what is going on in your local area and seeing how you can turn it into a fundraiser.

As this group say everyone wins with this idea. The authors and publishers get the publicity they need. Most publishers will have mailing lists of their author's supporters and previous purchasers etc - They will readily use these to help drum up support. Local book clubs can use it as a way of adding something a little extra. Local bookstores and libaries will want to support any book - buying activity in their area. And finally you'll have a really great night at your school and raise some cash.