Rather than embarking on the potentially long, difficult, and uncertain process of traditional publishing, many authors are now turning to hybrid publishing. Hybrid publishing, also known as independent publishing, partnership publishing, or co-publishing, combines elements of traditional publishing and self-publishing offering authors an accessible and quicker route to a professionally published book.
While providing the same quality, standards, and benefits of traditional publishing, the business model of hybrid publishing differs in that authors usually shoulder all or part of the costs of publishing upfront and in return get a higher than standard share in royalties. This also comes with other advantages. Authors maintain creative control of their book and the author is treated as an integral part of the publishing process from day one. Author copies are also easily available to the author at the low cost of printing and shipping. Depending on the publisher, most hybrids allow authors to retain the full rights to their book. Costs vary according to each publishing house and the services they offer.
Although hybrid publishers charge upfront for their publishing services, they are not the same as vanity publishers in that they will not just accept any book. There is a strict submission process and only books that meet their criteria and publishing standards will be selected. Submission processes differ according to publishers, but any credible hybrid publisher will vet a manuscript to determine suitability to their editorial mission and company vision.
At a minimum, hybrid publishers cover professional editing, design, production, distribution, and marketing, but some may also offer additional services, packages, or custom-designed plans. One thing you can be sure of is that with any reputable hybrid publisher, the quality of the content, editing, layout, printing, and binding is comparable to any traditionally published book.
According to the IBPA (Independent Book Publishers Association), a hybrid publisher must:
- Define a mission and vision for its publishing program.
- Vet submissions.
- Publish under its own imprint(s) and ISBNs.
- Publish to industry standards.
- Ensure editorial, design, and production quality.
- Pursue and manage a range of publishing rights.
- Provide distribution services.
- Demonstrate respectable sales.
- Pay authors a higher-than-standard royalty.
Not all hybrid publishers are the same. It is important to do your due diligence and research before you sign up with any publisher to make sure they are respected, produce high-quality books, and suit your needs. A hybrid publisher should be professional in all their dealings with an author, take meticulous care through each stage of the process, communicate regularly, and be committed to publishing the best book possible.
Pure Ink Press is an independent publisher with the business model of partnership publishing. PIP combines over fifteen years of publishing experience with our skilled staff and would love to help you publish the book of your dreams. Feel free to contact us for a call or more information.