Lessons from the Show Floor: Work the Line

Attending my first American Library Association Annual Conference & Exhibition was a delight! As an author, book lover, and trade show consultant … it was like stepping into a dream world. (Plus it was exciting to have my book, Build a Better Trade Show Image, on display there.)

Although just like at any other trade show, I witnessed both the good and the bad. So I want to share a few of my experiences with you. (This is the first in a series of posts.)

Lesson # 1 from ALA 2026 in Chicago:

If you plan on having some kind of celebrity attraction in your booth, be prepared to work the line.

Example A: American Girl authors’ booksigning 

Following a standing-room only presentation, legendary authors Valerie Tripp and Connie Porter went to the booth to sign books, along with new author Megan Wagner Lloyd. Dozens of librarians lined up around the corner of the booth and down the cross aisle. But before she went to the booth, Valerie Tripp walked all the way to the end of the line, greeting fans and thanking them. Then she signed books … for nearly 3 hours! One staffer told me that Valerie insisted on staying until every person waiting in line had received their book. Now that’s a class act!

Example B: Daniel Tiger in the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood booth

When you walked up to the end of this line a staffer scanned your badge, but you didn’t get a ticket … you got Daniel Tiger ears to wear! As you approached the booth, staffers talked about their products and let you choose a bit of swag, like buttons, stickers or a “My other car is a trolley” magnet. When it was your turn for a photo opp with Daniel Tiger, you handed your phone to another booth staffer who then snapped a couple of photos.

(Note: Both of these booths were in corner spaces, so they used the cross aisle to line up, which avoided blocking other exhibitors’ booths.)

Example C: What NOT to do

Fans started lining up about 20-30 minutes before a signing in a big-name publisher’s booth (who shall remain nameless). But when it was time for the signing, a booth staffer started a new line, handing out tickets to whoever could grab them first. The person who told me the story said just as she was reaching for hers, the guy behind reached past her to grab it. Turns out that was the last one. Angry librarians loudly voiced their opinions (turns out librarians aren’t always quiet) to booth staffers. Lesson learned: If you tick off your most fervent fans, they can & will spread the word … to everyone!

Example D: Be prepared – even if you’re the little guy

One small exhibitor realized they might have underestimated demand as people started lining up about 20 minutes before the signing. So they sprung into action, working the line and being upfront with people that they might run out of books. But they offered alternatives for those who were willing to compromise. Their audience was grateful for the honesty and respect.