Independent bookstore Indy Reads Books is an avid supporter of local authors and associated events such as readings and book signings. Their goal, per Director Alyssa Starr Newerth, is to get more regional and national authors to schedule visits and events, but Indianapolis isn't a common stop on national book tours. In the meantime, they are assembling panels of local authors and experts to discuss the work of national authors. The bookstore has discovered that the community is interested in hearing panel discussions about bestselling books, even if the books' authors aren't making an appearance. There is a value in hearing the perspective and opinions of other experienced authors and topic-related experts.
Learn more about Indy Reads Books at http://www.indyreadsbooks.org.