How to Start a Small Publishing House

Establishing and running a small publishing house may seem like a complicated endeavor. However, because of digital technology and the distribution possibilities offered by the Internet, small publishing is more feasible today than ever before. Independent voices can be affordably made available to the general reading public, providing fresh titles, both fiction and non-fiction. While big publishing might claim the majority of the profit margin, small publishing remains alive and well among the small, entrepreneurial set.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Acquire International Standard Book Numbers (ISBN) from Bowker Agency. These unique numbers identify your exclusive right to the titles you are publishing and are needed to distribute your books widely.
2. Purchase a unique Internet domain name for your publishing house website. The electronic storefront is a major factor in evening out the long odds of competing against large publishing houses with huge fiction and non fiction lists supported by lavish advertising accounts.
3. Determine a niche for your publication efforts. Small presses succeed when their books are targeted toward a small but dependable readership.
4. Develop an attractive and content appropriate website for your books. The Internet appearance of your small press will provide a virtual stop and gathering place for readers interested in whatever niche you claim.
5. Locate the book printer most appropriate for your needs. Print-on-demand technology allows you to set up titles in an electronic database for minimal cost while providing widespread distribution through popular online book retailers.
6. Contact small press friendly book reviewers and send attractive press kits. Making contact with the Internet-based book reviewers is one of the most important aspects of ensuring your books are reviewed and made known to your intended readership.
7. Visit small press trade shows and network with other small publishers, sharing information on unique marketing strategies in order to keep abreast of the most recent trends within the business.