In a Forbes piece headlined "Book Publishers Challenged by Distribution Problems," Robert Picard noted that while digital distribution of titles is rapidly increasing, "the vast majority of books sold remain in physical copies and there is a need for local retailers to provide them. Such retailers are not only needed to provide access to books, but because they are one of the most important ways readers find out about books that are not bestsellers or highly reviewed in the media. Good booksellers stock thousands of copies on a wide variety of topics, allowing readers to browse and find interesting volumes by topics and serendipity."Picard made a case for more indie support from publishers: "The shifting distribution patterns for books mean publishers now need strategies to make local independent bookstores sustainable and to help restore local booksellers where they no longer exist. Policy makers need to ensure that tax codes and other regulations do not disadvantage physical booksellers compared to those who sell online. Unless there is concerted effort to solve the challenges of book distribution, we will all be worse off and culture diminished."
Via Shelf Awareness.
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