Indie Publishing Blend: Combining Credibility with Experience at CreateSpace
Covering Ground in the Self-Publishing World: A Closer Look at CreateSpace
In the realm of 2011 publishing, Amazon.com made some noteworthy strides, though the news buzzing about remains a mix of industry updates and speculation. One thing's for sure, though - they've got lofty plans.
Some of these moves have been a while in the making, shown by the 2010 Bowker's report that Amazon's self-publishing imprint, CreateSpace, surpassed other self-publishing houses with a staggering three times as many titles in print. Given CreateSpace's rapid advancement, this stellar performance is well-deserved, having seen an impressive 80% growth in titles released since 2009, with even more anticipated in the near future.
Looking back, CreateSpace had its roots in two separate companies: BookeSurge, Inc., established in 2000, and CustomFlix Labs, Inc., launched in 2002. After Amazon acquired both organizations in 2005, they didn't blend to form CreateSpace as we know it today until 2009.
"We cater to a diverse range of authors choosing self-publishing via CreateSpace," remarks Aaron Rosenstein, Senior Manager at Amazon.com about CreateSpace's remarkable success. "There's a burgeoning indie publishing scene, and we firmly believe it's hitting its stride."
CreateSpace's appeal to authors mirrors what other self-publishing sites offer, such as the higher royalty rates, low member book pricing, and distribution to thousands of retail and wholesale outlets. What sets CreateSpace apart, though, is its powerful benefactor - Amazon.com. With Amazon's renowned brand presence worldwide, it takes much of the uncertainty out of the DIY publishing journey.
"Some of our authors are established figures seeking greater control over their content and higher royalties or fresh talent looking to make a mark and build a following," Rosenstein adds. The latter utilize CreateSpace to jumpstart their careers.
But it's not just indie authors who reap the benefits of CreateSpace's accessibility and tight-knit community. Its fast-to-market publishing concept and print-on-demand technology assure readers never have to wait for delayed book deliveries.
"For readers, CreateSpace is a treasure trove of fresh, diverse book selections," Rosenstein concludes. It seems Amazon intends to be more than just the world's giant online bookseller - through its self-publishing platform and the recently formed Amazon Publishing, they're now focusing on fostering the creation of books as well.
Profiling Mercy Pilkington
Email: [email protected]: Mercy Pilkington
Mercy Pilkington is a seasoned Senior Editor for Good e-Reader. She's also the visionary CEO and founder of a hybrid publishing and consulting company.
- As a Senior Editor for Good e-Reader and the visionary CEO of a hybrid publishing and consulting company, Mercy Pilkington stays updated on the latest industry news, including advancements in technology such as the growing e-reader market.
- In her role as an industry expert, Mercy Pilkington closely follows the growth and success of self-publishing platforms like CreateSpace, Wondering if the increasing use of technology, such as e-readers, will impact the medium's rapid advancement in the publishing industry.
