Good news for independent authors: the self-publishing platform IngramSpark has ceased to charge book setup fees. The change in policy came into effect on May 1st. This means that authors can now upload their new books free of charge, as long as they meet standard requirements. In addition, authors can also revise their books for free within the first 60 days of publication.
IngramSpark has always been a popular choice for self-published authors due to its wide distribution network and print-on-demand services. For authors not resident in the US or the UK, it is often the only option for combined publishing and distribution. But the fees have been a hurdle for some authors looking to publish their work, with many authors waiting for the one or two times per year that IS offered coupon codes for free setup. The removal of the setup and revision fee is a welcome helping hand for indie authors looking to publish their work on a tight budget.
According to IngramSpark's official announcement, the free title setup is not valid for previously submitted titles. However, members of the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) can still use their membership perk that previously entitled them to five free uploads or revisions per month. Members can still apply their exclusive coupon code to the revision of older titles, which non-members will have to pay for.
ALLi is a non-profit professional association for self-publishing authors, offering a range of benefits such as discounted access to services, advocacy, and education. While the free IngramSpark setups and revisions have been a major drawcard for authors to pay for membership of ALLi, it is still worth becoming or remaining a member due to the access to support, information, and other exclusive benefits. The Blood-Red Pencil is an affiliate of ALLi, if you would like to check out their services through our link.
What This Means for Independent Authors
Self-publishing can be expensive, and every cost-saving measure counts. This will make the process of publishing a book more accessible and affordable for authors, especially those just starting and authors of countries not serviced by Amazon's KDP self-publishing platform.
Two months' breathing room for free revisions will allow authors to make any necessary changes to their work without worrying about the extra cost. This will hopefully encourage further proofreading and checking even after hitting publish, so that the quality of self-published books doesn't drop and reader expectations are met.
Free book setup is a game-changer for authors in developing countries. With the publishing industry being highly competitive, every advantage counts. This announcement offers authors the opportunity to publish their work with one of the most reputable self-publishing platforms without incurring any upfront costs. It's a positive move towards making publishing more accessible for all, and truly giving disadvantaged voices a chance to be heard.
Good for Ingram Spark. Self-published authors need all the help we can get.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Polly about self-publishers needing all the help they can get. Another perk is getting us into bookstores. My understanding is that bookstores do not purchase from Amazon (KDP), but they do buy from Ingram Spark. This opens many more doors for distribution. This is a win-win.
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