Suggestions Sought for 2017 Winter Institute Speakers

With planning for the 2017 Winter Institute underway, the American Booksellers Association would like to hear from member booksellers and publishers who can offer suggestions about authors and other professionals who would make knowledgeable and enthusiastic speakers for its 12th annual education event.

Booksellers and publishers are invited to share their suggestions at [email protected].

Presenters are currently sought for breakfast plenary sessions, featured talks, and moderated panel discussions. Notable speakers from previous Winter Institute events include:

• Amy Cuddy, who spoke about the power of the mind-body connection at Winter Institute 11 in Denver earlier this year
• Azar Nafisi, who earned a standing ovation for her presentation on the value of imagination at Winter Institute 10 in Asheville
• Daniel Pink, who presented the opening plenary on the power of selling at Winter Institute 8 in Kansas City, as well as a keynote on motivation at Winter Institute 5 in San Jose
• Ann Patchett, who shared her reasons for opening Nashville’s Parnassus Books at Winter Institute 7 in New Orleans

Booksellers who have recently hosted an author they think would contribute to an engaging Winter Institute, or who can suggest an author whose title has proven particularly insightful, are encouraged to share their ideas with ABA.

Publishers with authors whose books focus on subject matter relevant to the independent bookselling community are also encouraged to share their suggestions. Themes can include entrepreneurship, leadership, business strategy, small business management, localism and the economics of communities, or any other topics that might provide valuable education for independent booksellers.

Speaker suggestions can be sent to [email protected].

Winter Institute 12 will be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from Friday, January 27, through Monday, January 30. Registration is scheduled to open this fall; watch BTW for news and updates.