This year, the gala signing event will work a bit differently. Due to the increasing growth of the event and the manpower demands associated with it, the book inventory will remain in the bookstore room instead of being moved to the signing room.
That means a bit of adjustment for attendees. The conference team understands this adds a step for attendees but the event has simply grown so large that moving the books twice has become time and labor intensive. In addition, it makes it easier to keep track of inventory so our authors’ books don’t get lost in the shuffle. We will do all we can to make the change comfortable.
Just think of it this way, since you won’t be carrying all those books, you’ll be able to bring a beverage as you browse. Then buy your books and return (having already finished your beverage) to get them signed.
If you know ahead of time that you wish to purchase books for signing, please stop by the bookstore to buy them prior to the booksigning event. The bookstore room is likely to be busy during the event so early purchase will help avoid that busy time. The bookstore will open by noon on Friday.
If you aren’t sure which books you want to buy, you’ll still be able to browse display copies in the signing room. You will find a BOOKS I WANT form in your conference goodie bag. It will list all of the books available (alphabetically by author). As you browse, just check the books that interest you. Then, take the form with you to the bookstore. That way, you don’t have to remember a long list and bookstore staff can easily assist you. Then, take the books back to the signing room for signing.
The BOOKS I WANT form can also function as a handy list while you’re attending sessions and find yourself intrigued by a presenter. Just mark the form as a reminder for later shopping.