I get calls all the time from people who “know” the book publishing industry.  They have written a book and have been avid readers for years… so they assume that they are the key demographic and what they know is fact.

More often than not, what they “know” is old news.  Now I assume that no one reading this falls into this category, but perhaps we can pass this info onto the others…

So, once again:

1. Hardcovers no longer are the standard for “serious” books and are rarely purchased
2. POD has become more acceptable to bookstores, but you still need to print some and offer them through traditional distribution or fulfillment companies to be taken seriously by the bookstores.
3. Digital Printing has improved in quality and you do NOT need to print thousands of books.
4. There are even fewer print and online reviewers of consequence but…
5. Reviews are still KEY.  Most libraries and major book chains need professional reviews before they will consider a small press title in any real quantity.
6. Libraries and bookstores are not necessarily the best way to get to readers anymore
7. Most books are not sold in bookstores
8. eBooks have taken a much bigger portion of book sales
9. There are MORE readers now than there were a year ago THANKS to eBook readers
10. Inexpensive eBooks are the best way to get your book out to the most people and create a buzz.  It does not “cheapen the book, it gives the reader a chance to sample something they would not otherwise because of a special offer.

Call if you want clarification on any of these!  518-261-1300  or email info@newshelves.com