In an era dominated by the internet and digital media, the book industry reveals an interesting statistic: over 80 percent of books are still purchased and read in physical format. This trend underscores the importance of printing and finding a book fulfillment company for online orders. While offering your work in eBook and audiobook formats is beneficial, most sales and readership continue to favor traditional printed books. It highlights the significance of print publishing for authors aspiring to build successful careers. Creating visually appealing books that resonate within their genres is always advantageous.
The reasons behind people's preference for physical books over digital ones are complex. It could stem from habits, a sentimental attachment to owning a bookshelf filled with books, or simply the tangible comfort print provides. Regardless of the motivations, book sales remain strong. This trend gained momentum during the pandemic when readers were confined to their homes, and interest has persisted since then. Interestingly, while most copies are sold through online retailers, many readers still cherish the tactile experience of reading a printed book – and book sales are growing in many genres.
This situation starkly contrasts the shift of other media consumption, such as newspapers and magazines, to online platforms. When it comes to designing and printing your book, multiple options are available. A popular choice for self-published authors is print-on-demand, which provides a no-inventory solution allowing you to upload your content into a system that prints books as orders are received. Often, these services handle both the sales through their websites and order fulfillment. This model can alleviate authors' responsibility, although it comes with a significant percentage taken from profits.
While print-on-demand may suit writers with limited ambitions, those seeking to achieve more than just a single book should explore additional avenues. It's essential to recognize that self-published books are gaining acceptance and have promising prospects. The key is to write a high-quality book that resonates with readers. In addition to printing, investing in content preparation services helps ensure your book meets top standards. Professional editing, cover design, and formatting improve your book's quality, making it competitive with established publishers' offerings–book buyers' expectations are high.