Going Wide-A Practical Workbook for Independent & Library-First Publishing

Going Wide —A Practical Workbook-Independent & Library-First Publishing Most books about publishing focus on writing. This one starts where the real work begins. Going Wide —A Practical Workbook-Independent & Library-First Publishingis a practical, experience-driven workbook for independent authors who want their books to be discoverable, credible, and accessible beyond Amazon—especially through public libraries. Written by a first-time publisher who built and released a multi-title catalog in real time, this volume documents the decisions, missteps, corrections, and systems involved in publishing wide. It is not theory. It is not a promise of shortcuts. It is a clear record of what actually works—and what quietly breaks—when books move into library, academic, and international ecosystems. Volume I focuses on foundations: Why "going wide" is not an ideology, but a distribution strategy How libraries evaluate books differently than retail platforms What metadata, structure, and presentation signal professionalism Why stability matters more than speed once a book enters review How small technical errors can delay or derail discovery How to think like a publisher instead of a platform customer This workbook does not teach writing craft. It teaches publishing judgment. Each chapter blends short narrative sections with practical observations drawn from live releases, library feedback, and platform behavior. The tone is direct, reflective, and grounded—written for authors who want their work taken seriously by librarians, educators, and long-term readers. Volume I is intentionally focused. It establishes mindset, vocabulary, and structural awareness before tools, tactics, or automation enter the picture. Readers will come away with a clearer understanding of how publishing systems work—and why patience, consistency, and clarity outperform constant reinvention.