It's every author's dream to see their book on shelves at retailers, bookstores, and libraries. But how does a book get there?
Traditionally published authors have their publishers handle this, but for self-published authors, the journey can be a bit more complex.
In this week’s issue, I’m going to explain how they do it.
Your Options
If you're a self-published author, you have two main options for getting your book into stores and libraries:
Option 1: Directly Approaching Bookstores and Libraries
The process involves:
Identifying stores/libraries that cater to your genre and target audience.
Crafting a pitch to emphasize your book's unique selling points and its relevance to their store/library.
Contacting the relevant decision-maker (owner, manager, acquisitions librarian) and maintaining persistent yet professional follow-up.
This approach allows you more control over the process, but it can also be more time-consuming and require a strong sales pitch.
Option 2: Partnering with Distributors and Wholesalers
Not all stores will take on new authors directly. They might need you to go through a wholesaler—like Ingram, Baker & Taylor, or Bookazine.
Think of them as middlemen who connect you (the author) with big retailers.
However, wholesalers just deliver the books; they don't promote them. Some wholesalers also have rules.
For example, Ingram requires authors to have at least 10 books before stores can order them. If you have fewer, you might face difficulties.
That's where distributors come in.
Distributors do two big things:
They get your books listed with lots of wholesalers.
They have teams of salespeople who work hard to sell their exclusive line of books directly to the buyers at stores. They want to make sure your book ends up on shelves where people can see and buy it.
They usually work on a commission basis, taking a percentage of the sales.
Here are the typical steps involved in collaborating with them:
Step 1: Research and Evaluate Distributors
Identify reputable book distributors that specialize in working with self-published authors in your niche, such as children's books.
Look at their distribution reach, services offered, commission rates, and author testimonials.
Step 2: Prepare Your Book
Ensure your book is professionally edited, formatted, and has an eye-catching cover design. Make sure your metadata (title, description, keywords) is optimized for discoverability.
Step 3: Approach Distributors
Contact potential distributors and inquire about their submission process. Many will require you to submit a book proposal, sample chapters, and sales/marketing information.
Step 4: Negotiate Terms
If a distributor is interested, negotiate the contract terms carefully. This includes their commission rate, payment schedule, returns policy, and any exclusivity requirements.
Step 5: Provide Necessary Materials
Work closely with the distributor to provide them with the necessary files, metadata, and any other information they need to effectively list and sell your book.
List of Book Distributors
Here is a list of book distributors.
That’s it for this week. See you again next week.
Cheers,
Alex.
Comments