As we come to the close of the year, we want to remind bookstores that voting for the Southern Book Prize is still ongoing and to encourage booksellers to get their customers engaged on the vital question of what books deserve to be called "The Best Southern Book of the Year" by creating displays and encouraging readers to vote.

SIBA has a toolkit for booksellers, publishers, and authors with posters, flyers, shelf talkers, and other downloadable assets.

As a perk, any of your customers who vote for the Southern Book Prize can also choose to enter a raffle to win a selection of the finalist books and a gift card to your store. Plus, we ask them to say something nice about the store, which SIBA then shares  on our social media channels:

"The staff really care. Through the years I have known the bookseller/owners, they have been very attentive and caring. When I had four joint surgeries over a period of three years, they were kind enough to mail books I ordered until I could return to shop. I am 79 and appreciate this service. I also enjoy the readings in-store when I am able to get downtown." --a customer of Union Avenue Books in Knoxville, Tennessee

"I have had fun interactions with the staff there, and they've always been helpful. I've enjoyed the author events over the years, too." --a customer of Eagle Eye Book Shop in Decatur, Georgia

"Wonderful little oasis of literacy and positivity!" --a customer of Read Spotted Newt in Hazard, Kentucky

"They are always so kind and welcoming. Whether I just want to browse or am looking for something specific, Pearl’s always has my back!" --a customer of Pearl's Bookstore in Fayetteville, Arkansas

"Great little retreat within the urban car-scape surrounding!" --a customer of Park Road Books in Charlotte, North Carolina

Lady & Christina are fantastic at The Snail on the Wall! They keep a wide variety of books in stock, including those by local writers. If they don't have what I'm looking for, they are always happy to order titles for me. We are so lucky to have them in the area!! --a customer of The Snail on the Wall in Huntsville, Alabama

More info about the Southern Book Prize can be found at The Southern Bookseller Review