Books Nearby Books Nearby proposal update 10.9.18 A | Seite 2

About Books Nearby
delight • inspire • entertain
You might be surprised to learn the American Booksellers Association reports sales for the first half
of 2017 rose 3% in the publishing category of adult trade books, up $196 million over the same
period in 2016. Electronic book sales declined in the same period by 4.6%.
Clearly, many of us still love the printed word, arranged on paper, alone or with illustrations, to hold
and display on a tabletop or bookshelf. Although many of us increasingly turn to electronic devices
to learn and be inspired by words and pictures, our desire for traditionally printed books remains
steady and continues to grow.
Publishers Weekly found sales of all printed books rose 3% in 2016, with adult nonfiction books up
6.9%. Books with subjects of interest to regional and niche-market readers continued to grow, with
history and travel up 5% and a similar increase in design-related books. Books Nearby, with its
focus on local history, attractions, and arts and crafts, should find a growing potential audience
with readers eager to buy our books.
Mission
• Satisfy the passion and interest of readers who care deeply about or are drawn to a particular town,
region, or other place of distinction.
Vision
• Explore largely unknown, “insider” aspects of each locale, within the context of what’s already
well known, to give readers new insights and spark new interests for them.
• Bring together talented and experienced writers, designers, and photographers who are deeply
connected to the subjects of our books, which will give readers one-of-a-kind reading
experiences along with top-quality, keepsake publications to acquire.
• Give readers and customers online resources, through social media and websites, for ongoing and
quick interaction with us as publishers and with a community of other Books Nearby readers.
Team
A collegial group of writers, designers, and photographers, each with decades of experience in
creating well-designed, sought after, and financially successful publications, including periodicals,
books, and websites. The group plans to work cooperatively on a per-project basis rather than as
a formal staff. (resumes and links to work available)
William Ferrall (writer, editor)
Barbara Gookin BGAdvertising (graphic designer, photographer, writer)
Louise Martling Eleventh Hour Design (graphic designer)
Terry Pommett (photographer)