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| Answer | Why is Book Distribution so important?
Srila Gurudeva answers the question of "How did Srila Prabhupada preach to the whole world in such an effective and short amount of time?" by saying "It was possible because he translated so many authorized books, like Sri Caitanya-caritamrta, Srimad Bhagavatam and Sri Bhagavad-gita as it is, and he ordered his disciples to distribute them in public places – including even churches, airports, supermarkets, and railway stations".
In distributing Srila Gurudevas books, we are playing an active role in furthering the teachings of Srila Prabhupada. Srila Gurudevas books act as the 'sequel' to Srila Prabhupadas books and ensure that the world continues to have access to all of the profound wisdom presented within them, and further the education of those already reading Srila Prabhupadas nectarean words.
Book Distribution is effective because it gives people the chance to become absorbed in the nectarean words of Srila Gurudeva at their own leisure. Books can be read by anyone, anywhere and don't require much effort at all. The words and images in Srila Gurudevas books come together to help awaken the sleeping soul to the power of Bhakti-Yoga, and thus begin a person on the path of Bhakti-Yoga. By distributing books, we are distributiog the words of Srila Gurudeva and we are fulfilling the commandments of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu by preaching Bhakti-Yoga in every town and village.
|  | What is Book Distribution?
Book Distribution is a very powerful seva that delivers the words of Srila Gurudeva, Srila Prabhupada and the other Acharyas of our Parampara into the hands of every town and village. Book Distribution can take many forms, but always focuses on getting sacred books to whoever will take them.
| | | What is the main directive?
Srila Prabhupada spoke of the main directive, which is leave everyone with a good impression.
| | | What should I say to people?
The main thing is to establish a connection with someone. You can ask where are they from, or observe what they are up to and make a comment establishing a common interest.
| | | What if you speak to someone and the he or she doesn't want a book?
Don't worry, consider a fruit tree, when fruit is ripe it is picked easily, if not you pull on it and the whole branch moves and you actually may need to cut the fruit off to get it, we want to distribute to the ripe fruits. Eventually the other "fruits" will ripen.
| | | How can I not feel uncomfortable to ask for money for the books?
By asking money for the books you are helping yourself to buy more books to continue distributing. You should be prepared to give a book to someone who wants to read it. Don't be too attached to the results.
By asking for a donation, you instill the idea that the books are valuable.
You may tell people that we are not selling the books, you can say that we are distributing pure knowledge and that most people offer some donation, and ask them if they would like to make a donation also.
| | | How can I start distributing books?
To get started, all you need is a book and some enthusiasm to serve Srila Gurudeva. Books can be distributed in many ways and it's easy to find a way that works for you. Continue reading the section of this page to learn how to get books, how to distribute and much more!
| | | Which books should I distribute?
Srila Gurudeva always says that first we should hear his teachings, understand the essence, then share those teaching with others. This also applies to book distribution. It's important to spend time reading the books you want to distribute. This allows you to connect with what's being presented so that you can ask questions, present the topics clearly, and be enthusiastic about sharing the book's information with the world. Having a close connection with the books you distribute can make presenting them much easier. At first, you may want to distribute your favorite book by Srila Gurudeva or the same book that introduced you to Krsna Consciousness. This way you will have a deep and affectionate connection with the sacred wisdom you are sharing with others.
| | | How can I raise funds to buy books?
There are two great ways you can earn money to buy books. The first is to ask for donations from those you give the books to. The second is to have fundraisers in your community to help raise money for books. Your creativity is the limit when it comes to receiving funds from Krsna for your book distribution efforts!
| | | How do I ask for donations?
You can hand out cards with a website and contact info. for free. If someone stops to talk then show them a book. Then ask, 'would you care to give any donation?' If they don't care then either give them the book if you can afford it, or give them something else to keep. Or, ask a price. "It is $5, for the book, but you can give as much as you like."
Another, idea. Distribute the vital info to all with a consciousness of just giving out mercy. By eye contact, generally you can see who is sincere. Then either they will give something, or ask if you need something, or Krsna will arrange that someone will donate to cover the costs and more.
By following this simple, practical and affectionate advice, you are sure to have the same success!
| | | How do I approach people to distribute books?
The way in which you approach someone to offer them a book is very unique from person to person. You may want to try writing a short script to say to every person you encounter to lessen the feeling of being in the spotlight. Once you have served several people, you'll find that you will relax and allow conversation and approach to be as natural as any other chat you might have. Beginning your book distribution with a heartfelt prayer that Krsna guides you to those who will receive is always a great help as well. Keep in mind that you are doing a great service and are giving something of immeasurable value to those you approach. Have confidence in the power of Srila Gurudeva's words and in the strength of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhus preaching mission.
| | | Is approaching people face-to-face the only way to distribute books?
Your creativity is key in making sure Srila Gurudeva's books are spread to every town and village. You might consider leaving books in doctor's offices, on bus station book racks, at the Laundromat, donating to libraries, and so on. Please see the section of this site titles "108 ways to distribute books" for creative and effective book distribution ideas!
| | | What do I do when someone gets angry with me when I try to give them a book?
This is perhaps the single greatest reason most devotees avoid distributing books. But it's not a problem that can't be easily and peacefully dealt with. There are several ways to view the negativity you might receive in distributing books. Here are just a few ideas. If negativity comes to you, remember that Krsna is showering His mercy upon you by letting you overcome the reactions of your past deeds (karma), so to take any negativity with little concern for the negativity itself and more concern with gratitude to Krsna is an instant way to regain calm and clarity in a tense situation.
Remember that when someone gets angry when you try to give them a book, their anger is not directed at you personally. Try to remain detached from their emotions and don't take it personally. Allow them space to be angry and remove yourself from it in a calm, humble and grateful way. Avoid arguing or adding heat to the fire of someone's anger. Simply thank them for their time, give them a nice smile and walk away.
| | | How do I purchase books at special wholesale prices?
You can go to http://bhaktistore.com/books.htm it is set up to take both retail and wholesale books orders and is backed by a professional fulfillment center so you will get your books dependably and promptly.
| | | What are the most popular books to distribute?
"Secrets of the Undiscovered Self", "Beyond Liberation" and "Way of Love" are three of the most widely distributed books. These three books present lots of easy to understand wisdom from Srila Gurudeva that doesn't require much time to read. These books are also lower in cost, so are easier to purchase in large quantities.
| | | How do I choose where to distribute books?
Many people choose places to distribute books where there will be lots of people to approach, and with space to move away from crowds to talk about Krsna Consciousness and answer questions. When you first start distributing books, choose a place that is familiar to you, comfortable, and easy to see people that you might want to approach. Distributing books in natural food markets, art festivals, new age fairs, etc. are great ways to connect to people who might be interested in taking books.
Another point to consider is taking your books wherever you are, not only to where you distribute. Turn every place you go into an opportunity to distribute a few books while you are there. Bus rides, supermarkets, bookstores, doctors offices. The potential places where you will find someone eager to read one of Srila Gurudeva's books is truly endless.
| | | Are there any rules for distributing books?
The two things you should remember, are that you are representing Srila Gurudeva and our sampradaya when you are giving books. So maintaining a polite, clean, friendly and spiritual mindset ensures you will be successful. Also keep in mind that the books are sacred. Avoid placing them on the ground, on benches where people sit, in restrooms, and in other unclean places. Your respect for the books and the wisdom they offer will carry into the hearts of the people you approach by your example.
It is also important to remember that Srila Gurudevas books are an extension to Srila Prabhupada's books and to treat them as such. Srila Gurudevas mission of book publication and distribution is aimed at furthering the understanding the world has of what Srila Prabhupada has given.
| | | How can I use Book Distribution to get visitors to our local weekly program?
Try adding a simple bookmark or sticker on the inside of the cover with a webpage, phone number, program details, etc. You can mention to each person who takes a book that your program is being offered for free and the topics in the book are presented there in depth. Make sure they know they are welcome and encouraged to attend, and take time to answer any questions they might have.
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