Discover the Benefits of Self-Publishing!

Outcomes Upon completion of this course students should be able to do or have done the following:

• Identify publishing options available and determine which one is right for them.
• Demonstrate ability to complete the copyright registration, secure a block of ISBN?s and Library of Congress Card Number.
• Research the costs associated with hiring prospective editors, cover designers, typesetters versus doing it yourself.
• Write and submit three Request for Quotes (RFQ) to prospective printers.
• Develop a basic marketing plan.
• Identify the various avenues of promotion and selling your book.

Assessment

1. Students will demonstrate their understanding of each lesson by obtaining 70% on tests given at the end of each lesson.
2. Students will be required to complete the copyright application and apply for a Library of Congress Number.
3. Contact at least two editors, cover designer and typesetter, and provide instructor with price quotes received.
4. Students will submit sample RFQ.
5. Students will develop and submit basic marketing plan for evaluation and feedback.

Program Details: Each lesson includes the following:

• Course Description
• Outcomes
• Reading Assignments
• Exercises
• Exams

Suggested Course Textbooks: Ross, Tom and Marilyn,The Complete Guide to Self-Publishing ISBN: 1-58297-091-2 Cover Price: $19.99 Available for purchase Here Individual Online Lessons Lesson 1?What Are Your Publishing Options? In this first lesson, you will gain a basic understanding of the publishing industry. The advantages and disadvantages of the various routes to publishing will be clarified and will you in making an informed decision.Lesson 2- Book Registration Process? This is an important lesson. As an author, you will want your work protected, so that no one else can use it for his or her own purposes. You will learn how to get your work copyrighted. In addition, you will learn how to secure an ISBN, which is mandatory if you would like your books sold in bookstores, obtain a Library of Congress Number, and bar coding your book with the Bookland EAN scanning symbol.Lesson 3- Book Production? In this lesson, the book production process will be covered to include designing your cover, selecting images, graphic reproduction, software used, and how to work with a typesetter and printer. You will have the opportunity to learn basic editing techniques, identify the costs of different publishing software, and locate inexpensive editors and typesetters.Lesson 4- The Printing Process? The primary focus of this lesson will be on the printing process. You will learn how to select the appropriate printer based on your budget and need. You will determine the paper and binding to be used for your book. In addition, you will have the opportunity to complete and submit a Request for Quote to at least three printers and compare the costs and services provided.Lesson 5- Marketing + Promotion = Sales? This important lesson provides tips, and strategies on how to market, promote, and sell your book. We will look at Distribution and Wholesale companies, bookstores, Amazon.com, Book Fairs, and innovative ways of selling your books. Topics:

• Promotional Items
• Using your Blog as a Marketing Tool
• How to write and distribute an effective Press Release
• Creating a Media Kit
• Organizing book signings and other events
• Getting reviews
• Creating a website and marketing online
• Developing a mailing list and sending mailings
• Getting your book into bookstores

Contact Hours: 2