Manchurian Books

Many authors sell
directly to their readers, acting as publishers. The
introduction of "book ATMs" - POD (Print On Demand) machines,
which will print
every conceivable title in minutes, on the spot, in "book
kiosks" - will give rise to a host of new intermediaries.
Intermediation is not gone. It is here to stay because it is
sorely needed. But it is in a state of flux. Old maxims break
down. New modes of operation emerge.

Functions are amalgamated, outsourced, dispensed with, or
created from scratch. It is an exciting scene, full with
opportunities.




E(merging) Books
By: Sam Vaknin

A novel re-definition through experimentation of the classical
format of the book is emerging.
Consider the now defunct BookTailor. It used to sell its book
customization software mainly to travel agents - but such
software is likely to conquer other niches (such as the legal
and medical professions). It allows users to select bits and
pieces from a library of e-books, combine them into a totally
new tome and print and bind the latter on demand.


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