How to get your Book into Distribution

Understanding Book Distribution

Book distribution is the process of making your book available to the public. It involves getting your book into bookstores, libraries, and online platforms and, this is no easy task. The ultimate goal is to make your book as accessible and visible as possible to potential readers. But how exactly do you get your book into distribution? Here’s a guide to help you navigate this process.

Choosing the Right Distributor

The first step is to choose the right distributor for you. Not all distributors do the same things and some are more niche than others. There are two main types of book distributors: wholesale distributors and full-service distributors. Wholesale distributors are essentially middlepersons between you and the retailer and don't offer any marketing services. This is a key point! Full-service distributors, on the other hand, handle marketing and promotion in addition to distribution and this brings many benefits.

Wholesale Distributors

Wholesale distributors are a good choice for authors who have a strong marketing strategy in place. They take a percentage of each book sold, but they don't charge upfront fees. Some popular wholesale distributors include Ingram, Baker & Taylor, and Bookazine. You can read what I have to say about these entities elsewhere. 

Full-Service Distributors

Full-service distributors are ideal for authors who need help with marketing and promotion. They provide services like sales representation, catalog inclusion, and trade show representation. Some examples of full-service distributors include Independent Publishers Group, Midpoint Trade Books, and Consortium Book Sales & Distribution.

Preparing Your Book for Distribution

Before you can distribute your book, you need to ensure it's ready for the public. This involves professional editing, cover design, and formatting. You also need to get an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) for your book. This unique identifier is used by retailers and libraries to track and order your book. I use Nielsen in London. 

Working with Distributors

Once you've chosen a distributor and prepared your book, it's time to start the distribution process. This typically involves submitting your book and marketing materials to the distributor, who then makes your book available to retailers. Remember, distribution is no guarantee of sales. It simply makes your book available for purchase. It's still up to you to market your book and generate demand. You really need to understand this to avoid disappointment with the process. 

Conclusion

Getting your book into distribution can seem daunting, but with the right distributor and a strong marketing strategy, you can increase your book's visibility and reach more readers. Remember, the key to successful book distribution is preparation, choosing the right distributor, and effective marketing.