I’m going to a book signing tonight for Richard Hell’s latest book (formerly of Richard Hell and the Voidoids) I plan on buying the book there, but I’m wondering would it be rude to also bring a record? I have a pretty early 45 that was put out as a promo, and I’m not sure if it’s appropriate to ask him to sign anything in addition to the book.
by salad-daze
5 Comments
I guess there are different factors that could affect the etiquette here. Defintiely check to see if there’s any kind of post/marketing for the event that addresses this question. But if not, I’d say one additional item doesn’t feel like an imposition. Usually the author would be having a brief word with each attendee, so that’d certainly be enough time for him to be signing two objects in the meantime.
As an author, I wouldn’t have a problem with this
When the Criterion laserdisc of Spartacus was brand new, I took it to a book signing that Kirk Douglas was having. I didn’t even buy the book, but he was happy to sign the disc.
It depends on the person, I think, and the rules of who’s running the autographs. I’d go ahead and bring it and ask. But if it’s crowded enough, there may only be time for one autograph.
Shouldn’t be a problem for one item. Authors are usually happy to sign anything for their fans.
Some bookstores and venues have specific rules about this sort of thing with events, but I can say from my own experience with Richard Hell that I really doubt that he would have a issue with it. I assisted him at a signing years ago (at the bookstore where I worked at the time), and he was absolutely lovely. He signed non-book-related items and was very happy to talk with his fans.