
This is the second workshop in a series from Ignatius Book Fair, focusing on setting up your book fair space and what to expect when your shipment arrives. Your books will arrive about a week before the fair in stackable boxes that don't require much storage space—look for the "Open First" box containing your payment devices, then the marketing kit with tablecloths, category signs, book stands, and sneak peek flyers. You'll need 12-16 tables for books plus 1-2 for checkout, and the key setup tip is to avoid pushing tables against walls or arranging them in straight lines; instead, position tables so shoppers can access books from all sides, which improves traffic flow and encourages browsing. To maximize success, start advertising six weeks out, send a letter home explaining dates and purpose about two weeks before, distribute sneak peek flyers about a week prior, and give students time to make wish lists during their first-day preview so parents know what to buy.