Independent Bookstore Panel is the second session for Traditional Publishing Day! It will take place September 18, 2021.Â
Goals: The purpose of this panel is to talk with local independent bookstores. Placement of an author’s books in local stores is often a goal they wish to achieve but are not sure how to go about it. This panel seeks to explore how independent bookstores make their selections, best ways to approach them and what they feel sells best. Join us for an in-depth talk with Blue Willow Bookshop, Katy Budget Books and Gulf Coast Cosmos Comic book store.
Topics For Discussion
Introductions
What do they look for in books?
What is the professional way to approach them?
What formats sell best?
Questions

Qualifications:Â
Blue Willow Bookshop first opened its doors in 1973 under the name Musabelle’s Books in west Houston. It was given its current name in 1996 by its current owner who loves books so much she offered to work for free at first. The store was already a local favorite and under Valerie’s love and care it has grown and prosper. Valerie will share her knowledge and experience as a member of this booksellers panel discussion.
 Katy Budget books has been a community favorite and bookseller for over 35 years. They aim to be a destination for Book Lovers from all over Houston. Katy budget books sells books in many different genres. In this panel they will share their years of book selling experiences.
Gulf Coast Cosmos Comics is a comic store with an eye for graphic novels. The store carries a wide range of comics to appeal to all comic fans both in the store and online. They are knowledgeable about what is trending and sending in the world of comics.
Summary
 BlueWillow Bookshop, Katy budget books and Gulfcoast Comics are locally owned and operated in Houston, Tx.These indepentant books stores have been selling traditional published books and independently published books for years. They are in a unique position to share their knowledge and experience of selling books with inspiring authors.