Ask local merchants to donate cheese, wine, goodies for a pre-events reception. Be sure to give credit on the program, in news releases and during introductions. Make a fuss. Authors like to be catered to. Offer to entertain them at cocktails, dinner, a quick tour, etc.
Many authors enjoy talking to a writing class if time permits.
Make sure you invite the county chair, mayor, chancellor, heads of departments, local council representatives-the men and women who make decisions concerning the library. Often this makes an appropriate event to honor someone who has made a special contribution to the library. Remember, most authors are there to sell books. Plan in advance to have copies available for sale and autographing. This is very important.