I think it depends on the crowd. The contact person at the store said there wasn't a purchase requirement, but all of the other B&N stores have one. I'm pretty sure that given the situation the books will be signed. Considering Jim dedicated 2 books to the forum and then one of the forum members who died I think you shouldn't worry.

Don't worry... we'll get them signed.

Well.  It's complicated.  DH flew up to Cambridge for the signing.  He and my BFF were supposed to go to the signing.  BFF isn't really into Butcher's books.  DH and I discussed it a couple of months ago and said we'd get BFF to get the book for nephew and see if we could possibly get some kind of "To Dear Nephew for Dear SIL" inside.  I thought DH and BFF discussed it; that was the impression I was given.

Well, I found out TODAY that DH and BFF did NOT talk; BFF promised a signed copy to another of our BFF's a couple of weeks ago.  This wouldn't be a big, huge deal, except that nephew visited with us last week and I let the news about the book signing slip.

DH said he'd give up his copy for nephew, but I know this is a big, huge major deal to DH.  I'd be there if I could, but I have to work.
 
My DSIL was an avid fan; I think she was on these boards, but don't really know.  I know this isn't a big thing, but for some reason, it's just got me all verklempf and upset.  For some reason, every time I think about how much DSIL was looking forward to this book I get weepy and mildly irrational.

DH won't ask for special favors.  I suspect he'll just silently give up his one chance at having Mr. Butcher sign his book rather than ask for a special favor.  I am a different story, however.  I'll give you his name and someone can embarrass him if necessary, but I really hope I can get two copies signed.