HarperCollins' new online author tool

This Harper Collins story from The Bookseller:

Authors can now create and connect online through HarperCollins Publisher's new content-rich author network. AuthorAssistant allows authors to create and post personalised information and gives readers a chance to learn more about their favorite authors.

"Our AuthorAssistant tool, and these stunning new Author Pages, demonstrate how we are harnessing our power and scale as a publisher to add value for authors, while connecting them with fans who want more from them," said Jane Friedman, president and c.e.o. of HarperCollins Publishers Worldwide. On the author pages, readers can see comprehensive biographical information, links to press and articles, author blogs and favorite websites, photo albums, news, essays and more.

"Author Assistant gives me the power to provide information and keep my Author Page on harpercollins.com fresh and relevant," said participating author Teresa Medeiros. "It's original and incredibly easy to use."

Currently, more than 40 authors from HarperCollins' Avon imprint are participating, including many from the Avon Romance imprint, chosen because of the strong romance community and existing connection between authors and fans. HarperCollins hopes to expand the program to other imprints all over the world.

"The Author Assistant tool and the new Web pages it helps us create enriches and expands our authors' online reach and enables new fans to discover them through our Avon community," said Liate Stehlik, senior vice president and publisher of Avon. "We are committed to serving our authors by helping them navigate and embrace the quickly changing online marketing landscape."
AuthorAssistant