
By now most self-published authors know that they can digitally distribute their work directly via retailer platforms, such as Amazon, or aggregators like Draft2Digital and Publish Drive. They may also be aware of and be willing to make a significant financial investment in marketing distribution channels like the popular BookBub.
What they don’t know is how to get their books into bookstores. Which has led to many independent booksellers scrambling to figure out how to handle the ever-increasing number of unsolicited requests for distribution. In many cases, the books are poorly produced and do not meet distribution standards. Some stores do have consignment programs, which add quite a bit of administrative work to their already busy schedules. Most stores, however, do not.
On the self-pub side of things, not all authors have come up to speed on how to professionally produce quality digital and printed versions of their work.
At the time of this writing authors can consider a book to shelf program offered by Dartfrog Books. DartFrog has built and continues to expand its bookstore distribution network. These booksellers trust that DartFrog will evaluate and select only the best in self-publishing for distribution. But no matter which approach authors decide on, there are no easy answers.
Bookshops, especially the indie ones, have their own set of rules for what they accept from indie authors. And one other consideration will always be the size of the shop and the amount of shelf space available.
If you have questions about book distribution feel free to email me.
Comments