School visits are core to writers/illustrators’ lives.
Covid19 has drastically changed how we live, but it shouldn't undermine what we are worth.
With school visits temporarily postponed, there is a growing expectation that online visits and workshops should be free.
What authors and illustrators offer schools is invaluable and deserves to be paid for.
This week, the Australian Society of Authors (ASA) has updated its recommendations and fees for online visits. If you are approached to do an author/illustrator talk, feel free to send this link, which clearly outlines the fees.
Please also consider requesting that schools not record any of your talks/workshops, as this can be used multiple times, shared with other schools, and remove the need for any future visits.
CONSIDER OFFERING THESE FOR FREE
Having an online presence is important and offering some free online content is reasonable, such as:
A book launch
A brief Q&A with a school studying your books
A brief teaser video about you and your books
A book club appearance
A brief reading (Please check with your publisher re permissions to record)
A brief workshop activity (include ways readers can find you and your books)
A session with a bookshop that promotes your work and their business
A session for readers/schools who have bought your books
Many creators rely on school visits to supplement their incomes. If these visits and workshops are given for free at this time, it will create the expectation of being free after the virus is contained.
People wouldn’t ask a plumber to work for free during a pandemic, so why should they expect it from you.
Stay safe and take care,
The SCBWI leadership team