Writing a book is a difficult task, but getting that book into the market for the readers to find is not an easy job either. In order to do this successfully you must first understand where and how books are sold. Whether it is an online platform or a physical store, each of these places have their own methods on how to go about doing it. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to distribute your book, book distribution channels and book distribution strategies.
Book distribution channels are various passageways through which a book is made available to the readers. It is a path that your book takes from the printing press to the hands of the readers. The amount of reach that your book gets, is dependent on your understanding of how these channels work. There are mainly two types of book distribution channels; physical bookstores and online book retailers.
Bookstore distribution involves getting your books onto the shelves of physical book shops. There are many ways through which you can get your books in physical bookstores.
Traditional publishing houses can be used because they often have a well established network of independent bookstores or bookstore chains. This allows your books to be stocked in these stores. But collaborating with publishing companies is a bit difficult because of the intense competition and there is also a good chance that the publishing deal may not be in your favor.
Independent distributors provide a different avenue for bookstore distribution. These distributors are companies that help small publishers and self-published authors get their books distributed to small, independent bookstores that may not have a direct connection to publishing houses. Collaborating with independent distributors will allow your books to reach an audience that prefers to shop at local bookstores.
Self-publishing authors make use of self-publishing platforms for the distribution of their books. These platforms allow the authors to make their books available for order by physical bookstores.But it can be slightly challenging for self-publishing authors to get their books out in this manner due to lack of visibility and marketing of books. They can also approach bookstores directly and try to pitch their book so that it can be stocked.
In the digital age of technological advancement, online book distribution has become equally as important as physical bookstore distribution. Online retailing websites like Amazon, Barnes & Noble online and Book Depository allow readers to purchase and access books from around the world very easily. To distribute your books through online book retailers, you need to make them available for sale on these platforms. You can make use of self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), to publish your books through their online distribution services. There are some platforms that provide print-on-demand services, which allow your books to be printed and shipped to customers as the orders come in, reducing large printing and inventory costs.
After understanding the differences between different distribution channels, now it’s time to learn some book distribution strategies that will help your book reach a wider audience
You should research the different distribution channels that are available to you. Carefully consider the pros and cons of each channel and then make the decision as to which one suits needs best.
There is no need for you to limit yourself to a single distribution channel. Make use of multiple different channels so that you can reach a wider audience.
You can organize book signing events, book readings and workshops at the local bookstores to market and promote your book.
Make use of social media platforms to promote your book to your target audience. This will also help in building anticipation for your book.
Closely monitor your book’s distribution channels and their sales performance. Keep note of the channels that are generating more sales and traffic, and then adjust your distribution strategy accordingly.
You can increase the chances of your book’s success in reaching a wider audience by several folds, if you gain an understanding of book distribution channels and implement some book distribution strategies.