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Barnes and Noble Press vs Kindle Direct Publishing
Last updated: October 21, 2023
Barnes and Noble Press and Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) are both self-publishing platforms that allow authors to independently publish and distribute their books, but they have distinct differences in terms of their reach, features, and ecosystem integration.
1. Distribution and Reach: Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is the self-publishing platform associated with Amazon's Kindle ecosystem, which has a massive global reach. When an author publishes through KDP, their eBooks are made available on Amazon's Kindle Store, which is one of the largest eBook marketplaces. This provides authors with significant exposure and the potential for a wide readership. On the other hand, Barnes and Noble Press (formerly Nook Press) is the self-publishing platform associated with Barnes and Noble. While Barnes and Noble has a significant presence in the book market, the reach of Barnes and Noble Press is primarily limited to the Barnes and Noble website and Nook eReader devices. The distribution through Barnes and Noble Press may not have the same level of global reach as KDP's access to Amazon's worldwide customer base.
2. Features and Tools: Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) offers a range of tools and features to assist authors in the self-publishing process. It provides a user-friendly interface for formatting eBooks, designing book covers, and setting prices. KDP also offers promotional features like Kindle Countdown Deals and Kindle Unlimited enrollment. Additionally, authors can access KDP Select, a program that allows exclusive distribution and access to promotional tools in exchange for exclusivity. Barnes and Noble Press provides similar features for formatting and publishing eBooks, but its feature set may not be as extensive as KDP. Barnes and Noble Press also offers promotional opportunities, such as running sales or providing special discounts on books sold through the platform.
3. Ecosystem Integration: Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is tightly integrated with the Amazon Kindle ecosystem. This integration means that authors who publish through KDP have seamless access to the Kindle Store, Kindle devices, and Kindle apps, ensuring a smooth reading experience for customers. KDP authors can take advantage of features like Kindle Unlimited subscription reading and Kindle Owners' Lending Library. Barnes and Noble Press, on the other hand, is associated with Barnes and Noble's ecosystem, primarily centered around the Nook eReader devices and the Barnes and Noble website. Authors publishing through Barnes and Noble Press have their books available for purchase on the Barnes and Noble website and can potentially reach Nook device users. However, the integration and ecosystem reach of Barnes and Noble Press may not be as extensive as KDP's integration with the Amazon Kindle ecosystem.
1. Distribution and Reach: Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is the self-publishing platform associated with Amazon's Kindle ecosystem, which has a massive global reach. When an author publishes through KDP, their eBooks are made available on Amazon's Kindle Store, which is one of the largest eBook marketplaces. This provides authors with significant exposure and the potential for a wide readership. On the other hand, Barnes and Noble Press (formerly Nook Press) is the self-publishing platform associated with Barnes and Noble. While Barnes and Noble has a significant presence in the book market, the reach of Barnes and Noble Press is primarily limited to the Barnes and Noble website and Nook eReader devices. The distribution through Barnes and Noble Press may not have the same level of global reach as KDP's access to Amazon's worldwide customer base.
2. Features and Tools: Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) offers a range of tools and features to assist authors in the self-publishing process. It provides a user-friendly interface for formatting eBooks, designing book covers, and setting prices. KDP also offers promotional features like Kindle Countdown Deals and Kindle Unlimited enrollment. Additionally, authors can access KDP Select, a program that allows exclusive distribution and access to promotional tools in exchange for exclusivity. Barnes and Noble Press provides similar features for formatting and publishing eBooks, but its feature set may not be as extensive as KDP. Barnes and Noble Press also offers promotional opportunities, such as running sales or providing special discounts on books sold through the platform.
3. Ecosystem Integration: Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is tightly integrated with the Amazon Kindle ecosystem. This integration means that authors who publish through KDP have seamless access to the Kindle Store, Kindle devices, and Kindle apps, ensuring a smooth reading experience for customers. KDP authors can take advantage of features like Kindle Unlimited subscription reading and Kindle Owners' Lending Library. Barnes and Noble Press, on the other hand, is associated with Barnes and Noble's ecosystem, primarily centered around the Nook eReader devices and the Barnes and Noble website. Authors publishing through Barnes and Noble Press have their books available for purchase on the Barnes and Noble website and can potentially reach Nook device users. However, the integration and ecosystem reach of Barnes and Noble Press may not be as extensive as KDP's integration with the Amazon Kindle ecosystem.
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Welcome to Barnes & Noble Press—a free, fast, and easy-to-use self-publishing service that enables you to publish and sell directly to our millions of readers. We've taken all the great aspects of NOOK Press and created one unified experience to make publishing your print or eBook as seamless as possible. Whether you're a seasoned or first-time author, or you simply want to print a beautiful book for personal use, Barnes & Noble Press helps you create your book, your way. We're here to help independent authors and content creators succeed by using the expertise and resources of Barnes & Noble.
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Publish your books independently with Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) on the Amazon Kindle Store. Make changes to your book at any time. Publish once and reach readers worldwide. Publishing takes less than 5 minutes. Your book appears on Amazon within 24 hours. Make your book available on Kindle devices and on free Kindle apps.
Barnes and Noble Press vs Kindle Direct Publishing in our news:
2023. Kindle Direct Publishing Launches ebooks to audiobooks using AI Voices
Kindle Direct Publishing has introduced a beta program in the United States aimed at easing the financial burden on authors during audiobook production. Through this initiative, authors can convert their ebooks into audiobooks using virtual voice narration and synthetic speech technology. Amazon plans to expand the beta program in the future after resolving any issues and extend it to other countries. Authors participating in the program will select one of their eligible ebooks on Kindle Direct Publishing, customize the audiobook by sampling voices and previewing the content, and then publish it. They can set a price between $3.99 and $14.99 and will receive a 40% royalty.
2023. Amazon limits self-published ebooks to only 3 a day because of AI
In response to the overwhelming influx of AI-generated ebooks, Amazon has taken action by implementing a new restriction. They now allow self-published ebooks to be uploaded at a maximum rate of three per day. The reason behind this change is the recent surge in notable incidents involving AI-authored books adversely affecting Amazon's platform. Just this past June, the bestseller lists on Amazon were inundated with ebooks authored by AI writing tools like ChatGPT, resulting in a significant outcry from customers due to the nonsensical content of these books. Moreover, as the year began, AI-generated books surpassed those created by human authors in terms of quantity. Among the ebooks available on Amazon, some purported to be guides for foraging wild mushrooms. However, upon scrutiny by mycology enthusiasts, it became evident that these guides, likely generated by AI, contained serious misidentifications of fungi, potentially posing lethal risks. When numerous news outlets sought comments from Amazon regarding this matter, the company responded by promptly removing the problematic books from their platform.
2023. Amazon released AI guidelines for Kindle Direct Publishing
In response to a surge in AI-generated books saturating the Amazon book market and infiltrating the Kindle Bestseller's list, Amazon KDP has recently implemented new guidelines. These guidelines mandate that authors disclose whether their books contain AI-generated content, encompassing images, text, or translations. This disclosure is now required when publishing a new book or editing and republishing an existing one through KDP, even if the edits involve AI assistance. Authors utilizing AI-based tools for content improvement but not content creation are exempt from reporting, but all authors must adhere to content guidelines, whether their content is AI-generated or AI-assisted. This move aims to enhance transparency and maintain the overall quality of books available to readers.
2023. Kindle Direct Publishing has updated category selection
Amazon has made some updates to the category selection process in Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Previously, authors had the option to choose multiple categories for their books. However, the recent changes now restrict authors to selecting only three KDP book categories. This means that there is a possibility your book might get lost among the vast number of titles available. From now on, authors can only select up to three categories for their books. Along Amazon now reserves the right to change the categories of a book at any time to ensure a positive customer experience. To adapt to these changes, it's advisable to visit the KDP dashboard promptly and update the categories for your books. If you don't take action, Amazon will automatically implement the changes to your books, defaulting them into two relevant categories. To ensure the best possible categorization for your Kindle books, it's recommended that you take the initiative and choose the most suitable categories yourself.
2023. Kindle Direct Publishing to increase printing costs for authors
Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is implementing modifications to printing expenses in order to reflect the current expenses associated with materials and labor. Consequently, there will be a change in the minimum list price for your paperback and hardcover print books. Although it is not mandatory, it is advisable to adjust your list prices for print books in order to preserve your current royalties once the revised printing costs take effect. Any modifications made to an existing print book after June 20 must adhere to the new minimum list price.
2021. Amazon is launching Kindle Vella, mobile first serialized fiction self-publish platform
Amazon is preparing to introduce a new system called Kindle Vella for the iOS Kindle app within the next few months. This system offers authors a fresh method to share serialized stories with readers, presenting one chapter at a time. Through the familiar Kindle Direct Publishing platform, authors can self-publish their Kindle Vella stories in a serialized format, with each episode ranging from 600 to 5,000 words. Readers will have the opportunity to purchase Kindle Vella stories directly on the iOS app using tokens. To allow readers to explore and evaluate new stories, the initial episodes of each story will be available for free. Subsequent episodes can be unlocked by purchasing and redeeming tokens.
2021. Amazon stops accepting MOBI books from authors
Over the years, Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) has had specific file format requirements, including MOBI, PDF, and Word documents. However, PDFs have been known to encounter conversion issues when transformed into reflowable ebook formats. Due to similar concerns, as of June 28th, Amazon will no longer accept MOBI files. Instead, authors can still utilize Word documents in both .doc and .docx formats, or alternatively, upload an EPUB version of their file. While this change may not affect some authors who directly upload their manuscripts as Word documents, others who have relied on their established processes will need to adjust to this new requirement.
2018. Amazon has merged CreateSpace with Kindle Direct Publishing
The merger of CreateSpace, a prominent print-on-demand (POD) service for self-published authors, with Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) has caused confusion and uncertainty among users. CreateSpace, which was widely relied upon by authors seeking to print their self-published books, offered convenient options for creating paperback versions, including expanded distribution and printed proofs. This made it a favored choice in the industry. However, after Amazon's acquisition of CreateSpace in 2005, the company continued developing its own POD service, KDP Print. The integration of CreateSpace with KDP left many authors in a state of uncertainty and seeking alternatives.
2018. Barnes and Noble Press added new author tools
Barnes and Noble Press (formerly known as Nook Press) has introduced a range of new tools to enhance their self-publishing platform. Among the updates, authors can now schedule price changes for their eBooks in advance and easily track trends using the new 30-day graph for quick insights. For those aiming to distribute their hardcover or paperback versions across all Barnes and Noble bookstores in the United States, the self-publishing unit of Barnes and Noble Press provides the most viable solution. Additionally, authors have the opportunity to make their digital editions available for purchase in the digital store, ensuring that readers can access the eBook version. To further support authors, Barnes and Noble Press has increased royalties and streamlined the process of creating both print and eBook formats.
2017. Kindle Create is now available to all authors
Kindle Create is an innovative, user-friendly conversion tool designed to simplify the process of creating polished and well-formatted ebooks. With its "push of a button" simplicity, Kindle Create aims to provide authors with a familiar experience, much like using Microsoft Word, where they can effortlessly incorporate formatting themes and tables of contents. After successfully completing its beta phase, Kindle Create is now available to all authors. This tool allows you to work directly from your Word document, providing a preview of the final ebook without requiring a separate conversion process. Unlike a traditional publishing dashboard, Kindle Create is a desktop-based software that allows you to manipulate your file as much as needed before uploading it. Once you bring the finished document to the KDP dashboard, you still have the option to convert it into a MOBI file. Additionally, Kindle Create offers the advantage of formatting a "print replica" ebook, ensuring a professional look and feel to your publication.
2016. Barnes & Noble launched Nook Press Print self-publishing platform
Today, Barnes & Noble made an exciting announcement regarding the introduction of a new self-publishing print platform called Nook Press. This innovative platform empowers authors to transform their ebooks into print editions, enabling them to be sold both in B&N physical stores and online at BN.com. Nook Press offers a self-service program that allows authors to effortlessly create both hardcover and paperback versions of their books. Additionally, authors who have achieved the milestone of selling 1,000 copies of a single ebook within the past year will have the opportunity to showcase and sell their print books on a local, regional, or even national level through Barnes & Noble.
2015. Kindle Scout Publishing platform expands internationally
Amazon has made an exciting announcement regarding the expansion of its reader-powered publishing platform, Kindle Scout, to authors and readers worldwide. Previously available only in the U.S., Kindle Scout is now open to authors in various locations including Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Mexico, Brazil, Japan, India, and more. Authors from these regions can submit their never-before-published, full-length English-language manuscripts for consideration by Amazon's digital publishing division, Kindle Press, with a publication decision expected within 45 days or less. Readers from around the world can also participate by previewing excerpts from these unpublished books, nominating their favorite stories for publication, and receiving complimentary early copies of the nominated books released by Kindle Press.
2014. Nook Press adds Print on demand service
Barnes & Noble has entered the Print on Demand (POD) market, taking on competitors such as CreateSpace, Lightning Source, and Blurb, with its newly launched Nook Press print service. This comprehensive platform enables users to embark on a do-it-yourself experience to create their own hardcover or paperback books. The Nook Press print service offers a range of options, including black and white or color printing, a variety of high-quality paper choices, and multiple trim sizes and cover treatments. With pricing starting at $4 per copy for a 5x8 paperback, Nook Press POD supports both color and black and white, as well as hardcover and paperback formats. However, it is worth noting that the service does not currently offer distribution options, unlike competitors such as Lightning Source and CreateSpace, which provide distribution to bookstores.
2014. Amazon launches reader-powered publishing program Kindle Scout
Amazon has officially launched its "reader-powered" publishing program, known as Kindle Scout. This innovative initiative operates on a crowdsourcing model, utilizing feedback from readers to determine which books should be published. Authors whose works are chosen through Kindle Scout will receive book contracts. In a recent communication to authors, Amazon outlined the program's terms, stating that selected books will be published by Kindle Press and will enjoy renewable 5-year terms, a $1,500 advance, a 50% eBook royalty rate, flexible rights reversions, and the benefit of being featured in Amazon's marketing efforts. In a few weeks' time, readers will be invited to participate by joining Kindle Scout and nominating books for consideration. The current focus on the Kindle Scout homepage is on English-language books in the Romance, Mystery & Thriller, and Science Fiction & Fantasy genres, as indicated by the call-out.
2014. Amazon unveiled kids book creator software for Kindle Direct Publishing
Amazon is expanding its Kindle Direct Publishing business to cater to the requirements of children's book authors through the introduction of a new program called "KDP Kids." This program aims to assist authors in preparing, publishing, and distributing their books in the Kindle Store. In conjunction with this program, Amazon is launching a new tool known as the Kindle Kids' Book Creator. This tool enables aspiring children's book authors to create chapter books and illustrated children's books that can leverage Kindle features such as text pop-ups. According to Amazon's announcement about these new services, once the book is finalized, authors can utilize the tool to upload their book to KDP. They can also specify the appropriate category, age group, and grade range filters to ensure correct listing. The book creator tool is not limited to new authors seeking entry into Amazon's Kindle platform; it can also assist established authors in converting their books into Kindle format, thereby expanding their reader base.
2014. Nook Press self-publishing platform is now available in Europe
Barnes and Noble, the renowned bookseller known for the Nook e-reader devices and e-reader store, has made an exciting announcement. The Nook Press self-publishing platform, which was previously limited to the United States, is now accessible to authors and publishers in several European countries. These countries include the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, and Belgium. As part of this expansion, Nook Press now offers support for multiple languages, such as French, Italian, German, Spanish, and Dutch. Authors will also receive their payments in their local currencies, as confirmed by the company. Despite facing declining revenues, the executives at Nook remain committed to developing and growing the business.
2013. Nook rebrands and refreshed its self-publishing platform
Barnes & Noble has rebranded its self-publishing platform, PubIt!, as Nook Press, and has introduced several new features aimed at simplifying and expediting the self-publishing process. With these updates, the company seeks to establish itself as a competitor to Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing and other self-publishing tools available in the market. The key addition is a web-based platform that enables authors to write, format, edit, and preview ebooks directly within the interface. Additionally, a new "quick start" option allows authors to test the product without initially entering all their vendor information. Furthermore, authors can securely and promptly invite their network of friends and editors to read and provide feedback on any Nook Press project. The pricing structure remains the same, allowing ebooks to be priced between $0.99 and $199.99, with royalty rates of up to 65% (compared to Kindle's 70%). It's important to note that currently, the platform is exclusively available to authors based in the United States.