Curating a New World of Publishing

E-book self-publishing is a growing model of publishing that overcomes many limitations that traditional publishing presents. This model allows authors to become publishers and readers to become curators. There is increased accessibility, availability, discovery, and diversity, all of which help to promote a culture of reading. Libraries have access to a multitude of self-published books, which they can easily bring into their systems and deliver to their readers. Self-publishing also allows for availability of out-of-print books, including books that were originally only available in foreign countries. With this model, some libraries are even becoming publishers themselves. This presentation includes a discussion on these elements of self-publishing, talking specifically about companies such as Smashwords and Unglue.it.