We usually have an author visit every year, and they charge about $500.00. I received a letter over the summer from an author and we have her scheduled in November. Her fee is only $200 plus one night hotel stay, and she will travel. I spoke with her and she said that she works for an airline, that's why she does not charge travel fees. She focuses on her book "When I Learned to Read". It is a guide for parents and struggling readers in story format. Her interactive presentation talks to parents on how important it is to establish early reading practices. She will send you a guideline of how to prepare for her visit and scheduling information. Her email address in This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. I'm sure you can contact her for more information.
I know that some authors charge quite a bit, anywhere from 500 to 1,000 for a visit. For help with funding, try your local Altrusa Internatial, Kwanis (sp?), Junior League, etc. They have been very helpful for our activities.
We haven't done one for several years. Ask the librarian for suggestions. Our public library is also helpful in finding people and our Barnas and Noble has a section of local authors books-most of which have contact info inside the book.
The irony of commitment is that it’s deeply liberating-in work, in play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal critic, from the fear that likes to dress itself up and parade around as rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the barrier to your life. --Anne Morris