What to Do if Your Publisher Closes Down
We were saddened to read the recent news about Scribe Media (https://lunch.publishersmarketplace.com/2023/05/scribe-media-shuts-down-lays-off-staff/), and it got us thinking about the options authors have when something like this happens.
If your indie publisher has suddenly closed its doors, you’re probably in shock, and you might feel like it’s the end of your publishing journey. But the reality is, there are tons of options - you just need to know where to start. We’ve compiled some advice below to help you get your book back on track.
CHECK YOUR RIGHTS
Firstly, take a look back at your contract - are your rights reverting to you? Many indie publishers will revert your rights in the event that something like this happens, but it’s important to check your contract before you look for your next publishing option.
If this isn’t clear in your contract, or your publisher is maintaining the rights to your work, it might be time to speak with an attorney about your next steps. An experienced IP/copyright attorney may be able to assist you with any licensing agreements regarding your book and to advise you regarding any licensing formalities required under the law. There are also many online based legal services, such as LegalZoom, RocketLawyer, etc. that may be helpful to point you in the right direction.
If your rights are your own, the next step is looking at your publishing options.
WHERE ARE YOU IN THE PUBLISHING PROCESS?
If your book hasn’t published or gone to print yet, then it might be time to look for a publishing partner who can pick up where your previous publisher left off. Ideally, a hybrid or indie publisher that offers a la carte services should be able to take over at any point in the production phase.
You may feel skeptical when searching for a new partner, so it’s a good idea to vet your choice using a trusted source. Here are a few articles mentioning hybrid and indie publishers with strong brands and lasting, trustworthy reputations:
There are also other options such as trying the traditional route, or self publishing. One place to start exploring is Literary Marketplace - a weekly subscription to Literary Marketplace can be a great way to explore the options best for you and your work. We also recommend Jeff Herman’s Guide to Book Publishers, Editors & Literary Agents as a way to find publishers and agents that are aligned with your needs.
POST- PRODUCTION OPTIONS
If your book is already live and selling via print-on-demand on Amazon, etc, you may be able to take over control of your Amazon page and other online listings and keep selling it that way. Essentially, you’d be acting as a self publisher for your title .
If you have books printed and in distribution to retailers, or if you have no interest in taking over the distribution process yourself, then it’s time to look for a new distribution partner. Here’s a list of distributors and wholesalers that IBPA has compiled:
If this unfortunate circumstance has happened to you, Greenleaf would be happy to consider your project and see if we might be able to pick up where your previous publisher or distributor left off. You can contact us at contact@greenleafbookgroup.com or give us a call at 512-891-6100.