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Mindpro Eternal Order 10586 Posts |
I'd like to pick your brains and get your feedback on doing library shows. I have several established programs that I've been presenting in schools and other markets but have never considered targeting Library shows until a teacher recently persuaded me to look into the possibilities. This combined with my young daughter being at an age where we are beginning to utilize our library has kind of opened my eyes to the possibilty of expanding into this market with my reading/memory program, geared for kids 7 years and up.
My questions are pertaining to pricing and process. How far in advance do libraries typically book their programs?(booking timeframe) What is the standard price range for a library program of this type? (My program can be 40 - 60 minutes. I not asking for anyone's specific pricing but more of a range as to what would be a lower end, yet professional program price range, to what a more premium program price range would be. I guess the typical pricing spectrum) Are their any directories or associations you'd suggest or trade shows/events that would be worth pursuing? And finally, what marketing method do you feel you've had the best experience with? (postcards, Letters, emailing, faxings, phoning, etc.) As I said I am quite confortable in the areas I currently work, but I know libraries seem to be more budget oriented and perhaps have other specific critera and concerns than other markets. I would sincerely appreciate your thoughts and opinions. Mindpro |
Al Angello Eternal Order Collegeville, Pa. USA 11045 Posts |
All the Libraries in my state are on a list I got from a google search recently I've been sending them post cards. We also have a Library show case book that local libraries use to book jobs from. Libraries have a set budget so bear that in mind, buy if you are any good the librarians will tell each other.
Al Angello The Comic Juggler/Magician
http://www.juggleral.com http://home.comcast.net/~juggleral/ "Footprints on your ceiling are almost gone" |
Marshall Thornside Inner circle chicago 2016 Posts |
Its really really difficult to get booked
on the library circuit. It depends on the kind of programming and what age bracket. Youth-Teen, Adult or all Ages. Many libraries will go with your state arts tour roster. Where people have to apply. Budgets are pretty OK to good. Just depends on what angel your trying to market yourself that will be good for the library itself.
you will remember my name
World's Youngest Illusionista 7th greatest pianist in the world Go Red For Women and Stroke Ambassador www.mai-ling.net |
Donald Dunphy Inner circle Victoria, BC, Canada 7563 Posts |
Julian Franklin is one performer who does lots of library shows, as does Ken Scott, as does Mark Daniel. So do several other members of the KIDAbra International board.
Seek them out for help. All 3 I mentioned are members here at the Café, but hang out in the Little Darlings section a little more than in this section. - Donald P.S. Other performers who do library shows that I know of, include Steve Taylor, David Ginn, etc. I even had a copy of one of Steve's library shows on DVD.
Donald Dunphy is a Victoria Magician, British Columbia, Canada.
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suspectacts Elite user Boston 493 Posts |
Quote:
On 2007-06-21 10:16, Donald Dunphy wrote: Why does that sound so creepy? |
Brian Lehr Inner circle Edmonton, Canada 1605 Posts |
Quote:
On 2007-06-21 10:16, Donald Dunphy wrote: While I can't vouch personally for the other people that Donald mentioned (as I've never spoken with them), I can vouch for Julian Franklin. Julian holds a school/library workshop each year in Texas. As one who wanted to get into the library market, I attended his conference last January. As a result of learning the things that he taught there, I now have 55 libraries booked for July and August, and this is my first year doing it. So his material about getting into the library market definitely works. Drop him an email at julian@julianfranklin.com Brian |
Chad C. Inner circle 1522 Posts |
Hi Mindpro,
I would be more than happy to answer some questions on the library market for you. I have been performing library shows each summer for the past several years and am performing right at 90 library shows this summer - May through July. I can definitely vouch for Ken Scott, as he does lots of shows - and we are both in Georgia - and overlap at some libraries as well. Also, John Cooper and Arthur Atsma are both performing in libraries in Georgia as well. Just PM me your questions! Have a great day! |
TroyRoark Loyal user Springfield IL 282 Posts |
Hello Mindpro - Welcome to the club. Have you recieved your smoking jacket in the mail yet?
I do a ton of Library shows in Illinois, Missouri and Indiana. It's my bread and butter during the summer, and I'm starting to do more year-round stuff at the libraries too. It's a great niche. In my area, Libraries start booking late January. Most book in the March to April timeframe. My book is full by late April-Early May. I don't mind telling you that I get $325 for my 45 min library show. I will say that I have a decent reputation in the library market, so I probably command a higher fee, but that doesn't mean you couldn't come in at $200-$250. In some areas, Libraries are well associated, having regular regional meetings, and a performers showcase once a year. Other states (like Indiana) aren't very organized. I'd find out from your local children's librarian what's going on. From a marketing standpoint, the showcases are by far the best. You get 10 mins to show off your best stuff. I also offer a block booking discount. It very often turns a $325 day into a $700 day. I normally send out a mailer in early December, and then again in April, depending on how my calendar is looking. I send out an 8x10 flyer that I cook up on my computer. Here's how I book a ton of library shows... Every area has a Summer Reading Program theme. This year in Illinois it's "Mission Read: To the Library and Beyond" I found out about this last year. For twelve months I developed two shows for the theme. "The Space Cadet Training Show" and "The Glow in the Dark Show". They are selling like hotcakes. If you can develop a show around the upcoming years' theme, you are way ahead of the game. I do a different show (or shows) every year. Now, while I'm going around doing this year's shows, I'm promoting next year's shows, because I already know the theme and I'm developing the shows as we speak. Things you need to consider: 1) Space constraints. You'll be working in some tight spaces. 2) It's kids of all ages 3-83. Make it a "family show" not just a "kid show." 3) Promote the library! I can't believe how many Librarians say to me "Thanks for pushing the library. Most performers don't do that." Huh?!?!? 4) If you're doing B-day parties, it's a hotbed of prospects. The mom's who bring the kids to the Summer Reading Program, are also prone to having a magician at the birthday party. Bring promo material. 5) One more thing: Be prepared to travel. Each town has one library, big cities may have several. If you want to book a bunch of them, you'll have to go a distance. Today for instance, I was in Southern IL for three shows, tomarrow I'm on the West end of the state, and in Missouri doing shows. It's traveling, but it's good money too. Hope that helped. PM me if you have any other questions. |
timsonefelt New user SC 44 Posts |
I also make my summer living from library programs. I'd HIGHLY recommend Julian Franklin's workshop coming up in January. It's an investment in anyone's future who wishes to be successful in the library market. I went last year and I've already been doing schools and libraries for years. I've made several modifications to my business model since the workshop and I'll be back next year!
Where Julian's boot camp type seminar differs from others is: 1. it's NOT a pitch fest. In fact there was very little even available for us to buy. Secondly and MOST importantly it's not adapted ideas from other courses that MAY or COULD work. What you learn from Julian is a TRIED AND PROVEN (over and over again) system for success in these markets. It's definitely a worthwhile investment and should be stronglyl considered for those with a serious interest in this market. Best, Tim Sonefelt |
magicman226 Loyal user San Antonio, Texas 234 Posts |
Library shows are my main gigs. Last summer I did about 6 or 7.
For me, it didn't take much at all to get booking. My grandfather had said something about me being a magician one day in one of the libraries in town, and they thought it would be neat for me to do a small show. Not too many showed up (it was kinda early in the morning), but I was a good enough success with the show itself that the librarians contacted a bunch of other librarians, and by the end of the day, two or three more libraries wanted me to come do shows there. I only ask for 40 dollars for a show, and I didn't ask for money at the beginning. I do the shows more for people's entertainment than my own financial success. I get booked simply by being a success. The librarians spread the word around town, and libraries just kept having me. So, my advice is do a good job! They usually book me a couple months in advanced, so if you are going to them instead of them coming to you, I'd suggest going much before you were wanting to do a show. |
magicman226 Loyal user San Antonio, Texas 234 Posts |
Quote:
On 2007-06-22 00:10, TroyRoark wrote: First, I guess I kinda cheat only asking for the bare minimum. Then again, this is only something I do for fun. I'm sure I could ask for more if I wanted, but I'd rather build up my shows more than they are. (BTW, my shows are about 30 minutes). 1) Space can be tough. I had to perform two shows one day because there wasn't enough room for everyone. I also worry about angles sometimes, because there have been times people sit on the floor outside of where chairs are set up due to lack of room. Not always, but sometimes you will run into some nasty space problems. 2) It's definitely a family show, not just kids. I always like throwing in humor that the adults will find funny as well as the kids. Always have it where any age group can enjoy it, so that anyone that walks in will enjoy it. 3) It is a library, try as hard as you can to make a small effort to get kids to read. 4) Definitely bring some business cards or some form of small advertisement. People will always come up after the show complimenting, perfect time to throw out a card. Some ask for one before you even grab one. 5) I'm not sure about this one. I live in San Antonio, so I'm surrounded by at least 20+ libraries. Hope I could help. |
jay leslie V.I.P. Southern California 9498 Posts |
It seems that different areas of the country work different ways. Where I'm at, the powers that be seem to like new performers over established, people who have a show matching the theme, and the least expensive performers. I don't know anyone around here that's commanding more then about $275. The librarys would like to pay under 200 if they could. Maybe it's because there are at least hundred performers in LA so in this market it's a buyers market. Perhaps in an area with less performers it's possible to get higher prices. I constantly hear about how the Friends Of The Library has limited funds and wants to pay what they were paying 10 years ago.
Jay Leslie
www.TheHouseOfEnchantment.com |
TroyRoark Loyal user Springfield IL 282 Posts |
L.A. seems to be a microcosm. I can't imagine things being anywhere near average when talking about marketing yourself.
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magicman226 Loyal user San Antonio, Texas 234 Posts |
I only know of a couple different magician's doing shows in San Antonio at libraries. I'm sure there's a few more, but probably not too many if just a semi-decent magician like myself can get this many shows. I'm not complaining though.
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Mister Jazzz New user Texas 24 Posts |
Hello everyone,
I am creating a survey for the librarians concerning, their reading programs... (I'm creating this survey for college credit) I already have several questions and am in the process of wording and arranging the questions. They range from: important aspects of entertainers, sound systems, props, show cases etc... All of that to say.... "What type of information DO YOU want to know from librarians?" Just send me the questions, I'll rearrange them, and will hopefully post the ending result (after prof. gives thumb up) Thanks in advance, James A. |
Bill Douglas New user El Paso, TX 90 Posts |
Besides the workshops by Julian Franklin (already mentioned), the book "Magicians in the Making: A Complete Guide to Hosting a Magic Camp" by James L. Merrills might be a good source to look into. It is primarily geared toward developing magic "camps" that you can sell to libraries and other venues. There's loads of info in there about selling to libraries but also about developing a program that teaches kids (educational=marketable???!!).
Samuel Patrick Smith's book "The Confidential Day Care Booking Manuel" also has tons of info and examples of how to market and sell shows that should be easily adaptable to the library market. Heck day cares and other kid programs are open year around. What works for one can be modified for another with some creativity,right? I got both copies from Sammy Smith's website at: http://www.spsmagic.com (not expensive and may help you get started) |
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