School Librarians & Teachers discussion

Hello all! I had a question that I was hoping you could answer. I have recently (2014) published my third children's book. This book was meant to inspire children to dream, but also inspire them to write. It is trilingual, to gently introduce other languages, and I have audio in 7 languages. Since art programs have been cut in schools and there are less and less librarians with library closings and cuts within schools, I would love to know how teachers and librarians look for books to educate and how they prefer to be approached. Is there a "normal" or preferred way to submit books within schools and libraries? I had put aside about 250 copies to donate to libraries and/or schools that are in need (along with hospitals with pediatric units which is another story) and have had a heck of a time getting them into their hands. Before the book was published, I spoke to over 1000 children in 7 cities in 2 countries, but it seems that along with (smaller) children book publishers folding every day, schools in my area have shown little to no interest. The book wasn't given the Caldecott, but it did receive 2 international awards. I thought that coming in as a guest speaker, in many cases I offered this for free, would entice some to take me up on the offer to try to inspire as many kids as possible. Can any of you suggest any resources; lists, websites, etc...? If anyone has questions, suggestions, criticism or praise on my approach, recommendations or anything else that could help, you have my thanks in advance. GB

Hi, Gary. I read the history of your book's creation on your website and it sounds very much like a labor of love. I would get to Twitter as it can be a powerful promotional tool. The last pages of the book which can be filled in by readers is not library friendly (since kids are likely to write in the borrowed book) , but sound like a great freebie to offer teachers as a PDF download. They would be more likely to look into your book if they like the instructional possibilities it offers. I would like a copy for my elementary library if you are still looking to to donate.