Why should I enroll in the Virtualbookworm Return Program?
Industry experience has taught us that having your books returnable is very important to bookstores. Returnability eliminates the risk to the bookstore, -IF- the book doesn't sell.
Why is it important to be listed as returnable with Ingram Book Company?
It is worth noting that this program will extend to other wholesalers as well, but we began with Ingram due to the depth and breadth of their client list. Ingram, in our opinion, is an industry leader and virtually every bookstore, library and e-tailer in the US at some point in time has utilized their services. Most bookstores purchase hundreds of varied books by varied publishers weekly from Ingram. It is all a matter of convenience.
How long will it take if I enroll for my book to be listed as returnable with the wholesalers?
The process to make a book fully returnable via the wholesalers should take no longer than 15 to 20 days.
How will this affect my royalties?
As always, it remains the goal of Virtualbookworm.com to let the author remain in charge of their book. Unless you change the wholesale discount you wish to offer, there will be no change in royalties.
Is enrollment required?
Definitely not! As a valued author of Virtualbookworm Publishing, you may take advantage of this optional service. This is just another tool to help your book get as widely distributed as possible.
Will this guarantee my book will make it into the bookstores?
As much as we would like to say it will, the answer is no. The bookstore still has the opportunity to choose your book or not as they see fit. This will, however, give powerful rationale for them to strongly consider your book since they have the ability to return it!
I have more than one book published. Do I have to spend $500 per title?
No. The Enrollment fee is $500 for your first book (or binding style) and $140 for every subsequent book (or binding style) published with Virtualbookworm.com. For example, if your book is available in both hardcover and softcover and you would like both to have return privileges, the first year would be $640.
How long will my book appear as returnable if I enroll?
The initial period is 1 year, for $500. If you wish to extend the period of time beyond the initial 12-month period, the cost drops to only $140 per year.
Why is Virtualbookworm providing this service?
We've learned, based on industry standards and author feedback, that this is a service that must be available for POD authors to compete with traditional publishers. Put quite simply, it levels the playing field for Virtualbookworm authors.
My book is over 12 months old. Should I participate?
We feel strongly that books new and old alike can benefit from this program. This program offers opportunities that previously did not exist for ALL books. Unless you truly feel that you have sold your book to the maximum of its potential, this may be the program for you.
What happens when my book is returned? Will my royalties be taken away?
Your royalties will not be charged back to you.
