In the course of promoting and marketing your self-published book, have you pursued libraries yet?
Libraries are a great place to conduct readings and a great way to get involved with your community. The contacts you make at your local library may be able to help you bridge that larger gap to national exposure.
Here is a website that lists all the public libraries by state. I hope you find it helpful.
http://www.publiclibraries.com/
Good luck and have fun!
Kelly Schuknecht
selfpublishingadvice.wordpress.com
Self Publishing Advisor 