Self-published authors who’ve relied on multiple sales channels to put their books in front of readers will be excited by today’s announcement from Barnes & Noble: NOOK Press is now re-launching as simply Barnes & Noble Press, which will incorporate both the ebook and print-on-demand sites.
The rollout is expected to take place over the next three days, and there will undoubtedly be a few minor hang ups. B&N noted in their announcement that it may take a little time for an author’s entire catalog of titles to make it over to the new site, but that it will happen.
“With the new Barnes & Noble Press platform you will be able to sign in to a single website to create and manage your eBook and print books all in one place,” the company said in their announcement. “Other highlights include: an increase in the royalty rate (65%) for eBooks priced $10 and above on all copies sold, and the ability for authors to set eBook pre-orders 12 months in advance. On the print side, we have added additional trim sizes, glossy cover options (in addition to matte), and less expensive color printing options.”
That royalty rate is something that has been a hot topic for speculation as of late thanks to the accidental reveal of possible new features over on Amazon’s KDP side. The changes from major players in the self-publishing sphere have got more than a few authors wondering what the coming year will bring.
Apart from that, a number of indie authors take advantage of the potential visibility that pre-orders can bring. The option to capitalize on the early ranking stats can mean that a book debuts with better searchability in its categories.
At this point, B&N is actively seeking feedback from authors on the new site. Users can comment at BNPressSupport@bn.com, as well as ask for customer support.
Mercy Pilkington is a Senior Editor for Good e-Reader. She is also the CEO and founder of a hybrid publishing and consulting company.
