Signing Stars Volunteer Guide
Signing Stars Guide
Volunteer Field Manual • TLA Annual Conference
Volunteer Corps Authors' Area
The Mission
Authors are librarians’ rock stars! Your goal is to keep lines fair, calm, and moving smoothly. Thank you for setting the tone!
- • 100+ Authors host signings here each year.
- • Sales: No Wi-Fi is provided. Sellers must use personal hotspots or data.
- • Books: May be free (ARCs) or for sale at a show site discount.
Keep the Peace
Queue Control
No self-formed lines. If early, direct them to the staging area. Check with the Area Chair or fellow volunteers first.
ADA Needs
You may use judgment for holding spots. Write their name down and invite them to the front when the line officially opens.
No Saving Spots (Limited Books)
Read Signage for Costs & Limits
Unsure? Ask Early & Often!
Volunteer Duties
1
Greeting & Signage
Welcome the publisher and author. Confirm if books are Free or For Sale.
Paid Books Write price clearly on the sign.
Free Books Leave the price field blank.
2
Queue Mastery
- Monitor Supply: Use the clicker to count heads or distribute tickets if demand exceeds publisher counts.
- Closing Time: Place blue painter’s tape across the aisle and use the "Line Closed" sign when the queue is full.
- Communicate: Gauge line length against remaining time. Speak with authors to ensure they stay on schedule.
Timing Policy
Early Lineup
MAX 2 HOURS early for high-demand signers.
Line Closure
Ensure everyone in line receives a signing.
The Staging Area
Used for early bird queues and overflow crowds. Coordinate movement to the main line to keep transitions fair.
TLA Annual Conference • Librarian-Led Excellence Setting the Tone with Kindness