Dear readers. So many authors have temporarily waived fees for virtual presentations during these pandemic times. So many authors and publishers have offered excerpts from books, sometimes several, sometimes entire books online to keep you company and entertained.

Please consider the devastating economic impact to our industry and the people who depend on it for their livelihoods--authors, publishers, booksellers, more. Authors (full time) do not have jobs to return to after we are through this first wave.

Many cobble together a living through a combination of presentations, teaching opportunities, public lending right and copyright licensing compensation, and royalties. Royalties are often the smallest portion of our income. Consider 10% of a $12 paperback.

This lost season of book launches has devastated authors, publishers and booksellers who rely on the sales "bump" that launches provide. For many small publishers, this covers the large outlay of cash publication requires. It keeps bookstores staffed.

This lost season of launches means lost "buzz" over new books, which means lost future presentation and teaching opportunities for authors, and of course lost royalties, which also affects copyright licensing and public lending right compensation.

But don't get me started on copyright. Shame of the Canadian government and educational institutions that are comfortable with teaching young readers that it is okay to steal from writers "for a good cause."

But I digress. Copyright is political, and we ( @TWUC and other organizations) are working though those issues through the Courts. Because we have to.

My point. If you've enjoyed books and readings freely offered this season by authors because we all are in this together connected by pain and horror and fear and love, please consider purchasing a book. Purchase two. Write and post a brief review of a book you've enjoyed. #Buzz

Put your money where your appreciation is. The cost of a book in Canada is less than you'll pay for a lunch. Buy a book and have picnic in your backyard, your balcony, or by a favourite window. Show a writer you care and keep Canadian culture alive though books. #ConnectWithABook