Top Takeaways from the 2025 Lakefly Writers Conference

Topics Covered In “Top Takeaways from the 2025 Lakefly Writers Conference”

1. Self-publishing can be a vehicle for preserving a family’s history.
2. Librarians care more about your presence than your platform.
3. A good logline hooks readers and doesn’t let go.
4. Readers don’t owe you the next page—you have to earn it.
Thank You to the Lakefly Writers Conference Organizers and Volunteers

This past weekend, Spoonbridge Press was thrilled to attend the 2025 Lakefly Writers Conference and Book Fair in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The conference was friendly, fun, and well organized, and we sincerely enjoyed the chance to talk shop with authors, publishers, vendors, and book lovers of all kinds.

We learned a lot, laughed a lot, and made some new friends. We even gave our own joint presentation on self-publishing (our first one ever!).

We also brought back these helpful tips and insights to share with our clients.

1. Self-publishing can be a vehicle for preserving a family’s history.

Keynote speaker Tammy Borden moved the room with the story behind her self-published book, Waltraud: A True Story of Growing Up in Nazi Germany. In addition to sharing her mother’s powerful and inspiring story, she shared that the book has now reached over 11,000 readers—a testament not only to Tammy’s dedication but to the potential for self-publishing to honor loved ones and amplify important voices. Her presentation reminded us that publishing isn’t just about sales—it’s about legacy.

2. Librarians care more about your presence than your platform.

Britt kicked off her conference by attending a panel discussion called “Connecting with Libraries.” This was a Q&A-style presentation with a panel of library experts: Vanessa Taylir (Jack Russell Memorial Library, Hartford), Michelle Carter (Aram Public Library, Delavan), Natalie Beacom (New Berlin Public Library, New Berlin), and Elizabeth Timmins (Muehl Public Library, Seymour).

One big takeaway: None of the librarians on the panel looked at author websites when considering which books to place on their shelves. It was all about the social media—not necessarily the size of the following, but whether the author is actually out there promoting their book. This is important information for anyone focusing their author website or wondering if social media is worth diving into.

3. A good logline hooks readers and doesn’t let go.

Meanwhile, Sarah caught author T.K. Sheffield’s “Succinct Savvy Novel Description,” which included powerful formulas for writing gripping loglines. And they really work—the conference was buzzing with praise for the incredible loglines attendees wrote right there in class. Sarah was even lucky enough to walk away with an advance copy of Sheffield’s delightful children’s book, Nellie’s Island.

A few key takeaways: A logline is a summary of the story. A tagline sells the vibe. And both can be used to keep you focused and on track. They’re both important tools in your author toolbox.

4. Readers don’t owe you the next page—you have to earn it.

Later in the conference, author Wendy Wimmer gave the room a fantastic sugar rush with “Plot Candy: How to Get an Editor or Agent [editorial note: or reader!] Addicted on Page One.” She led everyone in dissecting first pages from a smattering of certifiable page turners and seeing what makes them tick.

Outside of this practical insight, one takeaway is that authors only have that first page—3 paragraphs or so—to woo readers into flipping to the next. Whether you’re talking about a physical book or a sample download, this is an important reminder and something we’ll be sharing with our clients.

Thank You to the Lakefly Writers Conference Organizers and Volunteers

This was our first year, but we met so many return attendees, vendors, and speakers who told us the conference has been growing and expanding every year. Special thanks to Ruth Percey of the Oshkosh Public Library and all the volunteers for coordinating this powerful event. It was a truly wonderful experience, and we hope to see you at the Lakefly Writers Conference in 2026!

Publish with Spoonbridge Press

If you’re wondering if self-publishing is right for you, schedule a free author consultation with Spoonbridge Press. We’ll discuss your project, then go over your options so you can decide whether independent publishing is a good fit for your project.