Rights & Licenses

1Do I keep the rights to my work?
Yes, you retain the rights to your work. Per the Hybrid Global Publishing Terms of Service Agreement, you grant to Hybrid Global Publishing the exclusive license to print, convert to digital format, publish, distribute, market and sell your book in all and in all languages throughout the world.
2Does Hybrid Global Publishing file for copyright protection for me?
No, we do not file for copyright protection; that is your responsibility. For further information, fees and forms to file for copyright protection, visit www.copyright.gov.
3Will Hybrid Global Publishing make two finished copies available to me for filing for copyright protection?
Yes, upon request, and at the author discount, we will supply you with the 2 finished copies required for the copyright office. It is your responsibility, however, to ensure they are shipped to the copyright office. (See Author Copies.)
4Who is responsible for getting permission to use previously copyrighted material in my book?
You are responsible for getting permission to use any previously copyrighted material. You are also responsible for including all necessary copyright information and/or credits on the copyright page of your book as required by the party granting permission for use.
5My book was previously published by another publisher. Can it be published by Hybrid Global Publishing, too?
Yes, provided publication rights have reverted to you from that other publisher. As part of the regular set-up process, a new, different ISBN number will be assigned to identify Hybrid Global Publishing as the publisher of this new edition.
6My book was previously published by another publisher, can I use that original cover design?
Not usually, no. Unless you paid for the original design along with the rights to re-use that design, or unless you ask and are granted permission to use the original cover design, that design is the proprietary work of either the original designer or the previous publisher.

Basic Services & Fees

1How much will the Hybrid Global Publishing process cost?
The total cost will vary for each book. We have publishing packages depending on the length of the book and what services you require.
2How much will it cost to print my book?
The cost to print your book depends on a number of factors, including trim size of the book (e.g., 6 x 9), format, page count, color or black-&-white interior, etc. Confirmed pricing will be delivered to you once the book specs are complete and final. Your Account Relationship Manager will provide an estimate cost upon request. Your author price will be what the printer charges plus $1.50
3What services do you offer?
Hybrid Global Publishing offers a full range of editorial, production, conversion to digital format, printing, publication, promotion and worldwide distribution services. Custom Services are also available including social marketing, Amazon Bestseller list, virtual book tours, author website development, etc.
4Must I register as an author prior to launching a title?
Yes, Author Registration is the first step. You will be asked to sign an agreement and deposit 1/2 of the package price.
5How do I register as an author?
Author Registration is completed via the Hybrid Global Publishing website or sending an email to Karen@hybridglobalpublishing.com.
6Will I be assigned a customer service person? If so, how does that work?
When you register as an author you will be assigned an Author Relationship Manager (ARM) and will be sent an email with his/her name and contact information.

Digital Editions

1What is a Basic ePub edition?
A Basic ePub edition is the digital format of a book that is primarily text with no enhancements (such as video or audio) and with fewer than 10 illustrations, footnotes, sidebars, boxes, tables or other “elements” that require manual manipulation as part of the conversion process from print file to an ePub file.
2What is an element?
An element, when used in relation to ePub conversion, refers to an illustration, a footnote, sidebar, box, table or other complexity of design that requires additional manipulation or processing as part of the conversion to an ePub file.
3What is an enhanced ePub edition?
An enhanced ePub edition is an eBook that has been "enhanced" with new features not included in the print edition. Enhanced eBooks usually include video, audio or some interactive feature that is made possible by the technology of the digital format. Conversion to an enhanced ePub edition is offered as a Hybrid Global Publishing Custom Service.
4What is a fixed-layout format eBook?
Fixed-layout format eBook editions, as the name implies, are fixed layouts. This means that the user cannot control the look of the display; the book will not re-flow on a mobile device for example. This format is suitable for books with illustrations and text that must travel together (science books, children’s’ books, for example). Conversion to a fixed-layout format digital edition is is offered as a Hybrid Global Publishing Custom Service.
5Will the URL for my website be embedded in the digital editions?
No. Online retailers place restrictions on the links embedded in digital editions sold through their sites.
6What is DRM protection?
DRM, the acronym for Digital Rights Management, is the set of usage rules and permissions that is attached to a digital edition to control the user’s ability to print, copy, share, etc.
7Can I choose to make my title available in eBook only?
Yes, although we recommend making it available in print as well, to ensure that your audience can read the book in the format they want. But you may choose to make your title available as a digital edition only.
8Is the retail price of an eBook the same as the print edition?
Not usually. The eBook price is typically lower than print edition prices. The Hybrid Global Publishing team will discuss setting the retail price of the eBook edition, as well as other formats, with you.
9Will I have the chance to review the ePub edition of my book?
Yes, an ePub file will be sent to you for review before distribution.
10Will the eBook edition of my book be published at the same time as the print format?
Your call. The eBook, eBook and print editions certainly may be published simultaneously if that is your preference; or you can offset the dates.

Sales & Orders

1What does "channel distribution" mean?
Channel distribution means distribution through all the various “pipelines” or channels. A distribution channel can be as short as being direct from your bookshop to the consumer or may include several interconnected intermediaries such as wholesalers, distributors, agents, or retailers. These intermediaries are often referred to as “channel partners.”
2Will my title be available in libraries?
Yes. Hybrid Global Publishing distributes through the major library wholesalers. Any library can order your book directly from us or from any participating wholesaler.
3How can my local bookseller/library get copies of my book?
Local booksellers and libraries can order your book through their wholesaler of choice or directly from Hybrid Global Publishing.
4Will my book be available internationally?
Yes! Hybrid Global Publishing provides global distribution for print and eBook editions of all titles.
5Will my eBook be available on iBook? Kindle? Kobo? Nook? Sony?
YES! Hybrid Global Publishing provides comprehensive eBook distribution, which includes availability on iBook, Kindle, Kobo, Nook, Sony Reader, among others.
6How will I know when my book is available for sale in bookstores and on Amazon & B&N?
You will set a publication date with your Author Relationship Manager (ARM). This is the date that your book will be available for sale everywhere in distribution channel.
7My book has been published — why is it not yet on B&N or iTunes?
Hybrid Global Publishing submits the eBook files and metadata to wholesalers and retailers with a publication date. Each retailer and distributor has a different internal process and, as a result, sometimes books are displayed on different sites at different times.
8How should I market my book?
That depends on if you want to sell your book through speaking engagements, to people in your industry or to the public through bookstores and on-line retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. You should make sure you know who your target audience is and how you can reach them. That might be through social media sites such as FaceBook, Linked-In, or Goodreads, on radio or through book reviews. You may want to talk with your Author Relationship Manager (ARM) about the Hybrid Global Publishing Custom Services or consult with a marketing professional of your own choosing.
9I just got three great reviews and I want them to be included on Amazon, B&N, iTunes, etc, what should I do to make that happen?
Hybrid Global Publishing alerts each account with updates in information — reviews, endorsements, testimonials etc. are individually submitted to each retailer. It is also recommended that you post these reviews on your Author Page on Amazon.
10I am going to do book signings at multiple stores, can I arrange to get the books to each of the stores before I get there?
Yes. We recommend that you contact your Author Relationship Manager (ARM) as soon as you arrange for the signings, and no later than 2 weeks before the events, to arrange for shipments.
11Can I bundle by eBook and print editions with a special price for the bundle on my Bookshop?
Yes, please contact your Author Relationship Manager (ARM) to arrange for this or any other special promotion on your Bookshop to determine pricing and any other details.
12How do I order copies of my book at the author discount?
Contact Karen Strauss at Karen@hybridglobalpublishing.com to order additional books.
13How long will it take to fill an order?
For a print edition, from the point of placing an order, it can several days to print and ship out an order. Very large orders may take longer. The shipping time depends on several factors including shipping address and method of shipment (i.e., mail, UPS, FedEx, etc.). eBook orders are downloadable as soon as you receive your email link to the download site.

Sales Reports & Royalties

1How often will I receive royalty reports?
Sales reports and any royalty payments are explained in your Hybrid Global Publishing Services agreement.
2How are royalties calculated?
Refer to your HGP publishing services agreement.
3If a retailer like Amazon discounts my book, how does that affect my royalties?
Your royalties are based on net receipts from each retailer based on the Hybrid Global Publishing Retail Discount Schedule. That figure is not affected by the price a retailer elects to offer to consumers.
4How are sales reports delivered?
Reports can be provided as an emailed PDF or can be mailed to you.

Launching a Title

1I've finished writing my manuscript, now what?
Once you have finished writing your manuscript, if you have already registered as an author, you are ready to launch your title. You will email the manuscript in a word document and we will send it to the project manager who will send you an email detailing how the process will work. This will bring you to the Shopping Cart (see below).
2What is a graphic asset review?
When photographs and illustrations are included in a book, they need to be of a certain quality. When Hybrid Global Publishing is provided with materials for a book, we review those materials to be sure they are recognizable, complete and suitable for use. In the same way, when a file is sent to us that is said to be “ready for press,” we review it to determine whether it is, indeed, ready for press--meeting PDF X1a protocols (including no rich black or spot color on black & white interior files).
3What is a print-ready PDF?
A print-ready PDF is one that meets the PDF X1a protocol.
4What is PDF X1a?
PDF X1a is a protocol that has been agreed to by printing organizations around the world. When a PDF is made to this protocol it will print at most printers without difficulty. Typesetting programs such as InDesign and Quark will output PDF X1a files when set to do so. The professional version of Adobe Acrobat will verify whether a PDF meets that requirement. If it doesn't, Acrobat Professional can often redefine that PDF to meet the X1a protocol.
5What is the dpi (dots per inch) requirement for illustrations such as photographs?
The dpi requirement for illustrations is 300 dpi to ensure clear, quality representation on the printed page. This is the standard resolution for use in printing (black and white or color) and all files delivered for illustrations and photographs should be at 300 dpi. While 72 dpi is the standard resolution of computer monitors, printing presses can print much finer detail.
6Should color files be CMYK or RGB?
All files delivered for use in printing book pages should be CMYK.
7What is CMYK?
These are the abbreviations for the colors of ink used in four-color process printing; cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K). These colors mix together to produce the colors of the rainbow when put onto a reflecting surface such as paper (a simple example is producing green by mixing blue and yellow crayons). Electronic files presented for use in printing book pages should be CMYK, not RGB.
8What is RGB?
These are the abbreviations for the colors of light used in representing full color on a device that renders transparent colors--a computer monitor, for example, or a photographic slide. They stand for red (R), green (G), and blue (B). Electronic files presented for use in printing book pages should be CMYK, not RGB.
9What is the difference between editing and copy-editing?
There are various levels of editing that require different sets of expertise. Developmental editing, sometimes referred to as structural or general editing, is a substantive process. It includes checking the content, determining its flow, commenting on the style of its presentation, and offering change for improvement. This is the first editorial stage. Copy editing, also known as line editing or text editing, does not address the structure of the book. The main purpose of copy editing is to adjust the text to correct its grammar and improve flow, without, in any way, changing the intent or meaning of what has been written.
10Can I work with my own editor?
Yes, you may work with your own editor to provide a completely edited manuscript. Hybrid Global Publishing provides Editorial Services as an option, not a requirement.
11What is the difference between copy-editing and proofreading?
Copy-editing, also known as line editing and text editing, does not address the structure of the book. The main purpose of copy-editing is to adjust the text to correct its grammar and improve flow, without, in any way, changing the intent or meaning of what has written. Proofreading is the act of comparing the author's manuscript against typeset pages to discover and mark any errors.
12Do I need a copy editor?
It is our strong recommendation that you have your book copyedited. You may choose to work with an outside copyeditor or work with one from our team.. we recommend using either a copyeditor or a proofreader to ensure that your book is as complete and professional as possible.
13Do I need to have my book proofread?
It is not required that you have your book proofread. Inaccuracies do reflect on the author, though, and we find that almost all books are more error-free when they have been proofread by an individual other than the person who last read the proof. It is your choice, however, whether or not you choose to use this service or to hire your own proofreader.
14Hybrid Global Publishing offers Custom Services. Am I required to use those services or can I choose to hire others to provide those services?
Custom Services are offered as options to facilitate your publication. Use of Hybrid Global Publishing House Custom Services is not required. You certainly may select any and all service providers yourself if that is your preference. If you are using your own editor or designer, you may want to coordinate them with your Author Relationship Manager (ARM) to ensure that their output meets publication requirements.
15What is metadata and why is it important?
Metadata is a pivotal factor in driving the sales of your book! Metadata creates keyword-rich content, which is searchable in browsers and through social networks as well as through online retail searches. It is important that metadata be complete and accurate. Metadata describes a book by basic descriptors, such as ISBN number, title, author name, publisher and publication date. Core metadata also includes information such as price, page count, format, and subject area. With so many new titles published every year, metadata is the tool that ensures that your audience discovers your books--it is the first step to making sales.
16What does metadata distribution mean? Why is it "ongoing?"
Metadata distribution means that a book’s descriptive information – author, title, ISBN, price, summary, author bio, etc. -- is disseminated to the largest wholesalers, retailers and online retailers. It is “ongoing” because Hybrid Global Publishing supplies updates and changes to all distribution partners to keep your metadata complete as reviews and testimonials are received and as you publish additional titles.
17What is an ISBN?
ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number. It is a unique number, required in the metadata for book distribution and usually printed on the copyright page of the book. This number identifies the book and its publisher.
18At what point in the process do I need to have an ISBN?
Hybrid Global Publishing provides the ISBN as part of your publishing package.
19I already have an ISBN, can I use it for my Hybrid Global Publishing edition?
Yes. Let your Author Relationship Manager know at the time of Title Launch that you have purchased an ISBN so the correct number can be used to identify your Hybrid Global Publishing edition.
20Does every format need a separate ISBN?
Yes, each format of a title such as paperback, hardbound, or ePub, requires a different ISBN. Various ePub formats, such as iBook, Kindle, Kobo, Nook, and Sony all use the same ePub ISBN.
21My book was previously published by another publisher, will I use the same ISBN on this new Hybrid Global Publishing edition?
No. The Hybrid Global Publishing edition will be a new publication of your book and will require a new ISBN to ensure that orders are filled correctly.
22Do I need a barcode for my book?
Yes, to be sold through the distribution channel (wholesalers, retailers, libraries, etc.) your book will need both an ISBN and a bar code.
23How do I get a bar code for my book?
Hybrid Global Publishing provides bar codes for all print books that we publish and distribute.
24Does Hybrid Global Publishing file for a Library of Congress number for my book?
Yes, since an account is required to get a Library of Congress number, upon your request we will submit the application for your title as an additional service. All titles may not require a Library of Congress Number.
25What is a BISAC code and why is it important?
The BISAC code is very important in ensuring that your audience discovers your book easily. BISAC is an acronym for Book Industry Standards and Communications. The BISAC Subject Heading list is an industry-approved list of subject descriptors. These codes identify for the online and bricks & mortar retailer, and other channel partners, the most appropriate subject categories to drive sales for your book. Booksellers will shelve books by BISAC code and online customers will be able to search by BISAC subjects as well.
26What does “trim size” mean?
Trim size defines the dimension (width by length) of the page of a printed book. In the U.S., it is usually expressed in inches. For example, a 6” x 9” trim is 6 inches in width and 9 inches in height.
27How is the retail price of my book set?
You will set the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), also referred to as the List Price, for your book. The Hybrid Global Publishing team will provide recommendations based on market knowledge and profitability.
28My book was previously published by another publisher. Do I have to keep the same price or can I change it?
You are not restricted in any way by the price of a previously published edition of your book. You will set the retail price at the time of publication. The Hybrid Global Publishing team will make recommendations based on market knowledge and profitability and will set a minimum list price to ensure that the cost of the book and fees, if any, are covered.
29Can I set a specific publication date for my book?
Yes, you can set a specific publication date for your book. Please discuss any specific publication date with your Author Relationship Manager (ARM) to ensure that all pre-press and production processes can be completed in time to meet that publication date.
30Can I publish my book in hardcover and paperback simultaneously, or must the hardcover be published first?
Yes, hardcover and paperback certainly may be published simultaneously if that is your preference. Timing the publication of formats is your decision.
31Can I publish my book in eBook first, and then in paperback for marketing impact?
Yes. Timing of publications is your decision. You may elect to publish first in digital format as part of a marketing plan if that's your preference.
32I’ve completed part of my manuscript. Can I upload chapters or segments as I complete them?
No. Please upload full text files only. This is the most effective manner to manage the process, as well as to avoid delays and costly errors.
33What's the difference between offset printing and print-on-demand?
Offset printing and print-on-demand processes utilize different technology, equipment, and ink or toner. Offset provides economies of scale for longer print runs, while digital print-on-demand process makes it possible to print inventory as needed to meet demand in quantities as low as one at a time.
34What does POD mean?
POD is the acronym for Print-On-Demand, the ability to print books digitally to meet actual demand, printing inventory as you need it in quantities as low as one at a time.
35What is print-on-demand printing?
Print-on-demand (POD) is a digital printing process made possible through advances in technology. With this process, it's possible to print inventory to meet actual demand in quantities as low as one at a time. With excellent production quality, POD helps you manage cash flow, makes it possible to print what you need when you need it, and prevents costly errors speculating on longer term inventory needs.
36What is the quality of a book produced by print-on-demand?
With the printers we use, the quality of the printing and binding of a print-on-demand copy is comparable to the quality of an offset print copy. There are some differences in a side-by-side comparison, just as there are some differences between two copies of the same book printed at separate times through the offset process.
37Are all print formats available in print-on-demand?
Yes, all print formats (for example, paperback, paperback with French flaps, jacketed hardcover, cloth hardcover, hardcover with paper laminated cover (PLC) are available in print-on-demand. There may be some trim size restrictions for these formats. There may also be quantity requirements for some trim sizes and for some binding options like die-stamped cloth or spiral bindings.
38Why are only certain trim sizes available through print-on-demand?
Print-on-demand is a very efficient process that enables printing, binding, and shipping of just one book at a time. In order to do this in an economic manner, the equipment must be set up for those sizes that are most commonly used.
39Can a color book be produced in print-on-demand?
Yes, with the printers we use, a color book can be produced by print-on-demand. There may be some restrictions on trim size so please check with your Author Relationship Manager (ARM) regarding those options.
40Can a book with a color insert by produced by print-on-demand?
Yes, with the printers we use, a book with a color insert can be produced by print-on-demand. There may be some restrictions on trim size, so please check with your Author Relationship Manager (ARM) regarding those options.
41Can I choose any kind of paper I want in print-on-demand?
No. Print-on-demand is a very efficient process that enables printing, binding, and shipping of just one book at a time. In order to do this in an economic manner, printers can't change paper between individual book printings. They use paper that provides quality production and has been accepted by their publisher clients.
42What are limitations of print-on-demand color printing?
Color printing by the print-on-demand process is suitable for most color interiors with the exception of fine arts books or books that require special papers.
43Is it possible to use offset printing in some instances and print-on-demand in others for the same title?
Yes, absolutely. For example, you may choose to use the offset process for your first printing as it may be a larger quantity to support the launch of your book and speaking engagements. Thereafter, you may choose to print subsequent inventory as you need it through the print-on-demand process. Offset and print-on-demand are printing options. The option you choose will depend on your inventory needs and profitability.
44If my first printing is an offset printing, does the ISBN change for the print-on-demand printing?
No. The ISBN is the identifier for your title, not for the printing process. The ISBN remains the same whether a book is printed by offset or print-on-demand.
45Will I get a proof of my book prior to distribution?
Yes. You'll receive a PDF file of your book to proof before print edition is released for general publication. The purpose of the PDF proof is to verify that the accuracy of all prior proofing stages was complete. Any typographical or formatting errors or required changes found at that time sustain additional charges.
46How long will it take to publish my book?
Speed to market is one of the advantages of publishing with Hybrid Global Publishing. It can be a matter of weeks between when your source files are received and validated and when your book is available for sale in print and in digital formats. A good rule of thumb is to allow our team approximately 6 weeks to complete pre-press work; add to that the time required by you or a proofreader to proof two passes and to give approval.
47Can I update my text file after it’s been uploaded but prior to publication?
Yes, changes to text can be made at any time. It is not recommended for minor changes, however, as there is significant cost associated with making changes. The cost depends on what stage of production process the book is in at the time the change is requested.
48If I choose to update my text file after upload, how do I submit the new material?
If you choose to update your text file after upload, please contact your Author Relationship Manager. The most effective manner to submit new material will depend on what stage of production process the book is in at the time the change is requested.
49Is there an additional cost if I update my text file after publication?
Yes. Additional costs will be incurred both for any changes made by the Hybrid Global Publishing production team as well as for replacing files throughout our network of printers.
50Publication rights to my earlier titles have reverted to me. Can I re-publish them through Hybrid Global Publishing?
Yes. We recommend that you check with your previous publisher to see if they can provide you with a print-ready file. They may be willing to do so for a fee that is less than the cost of scanning a hard copy of your book. Obtaining that file would also speed the publication process for the Hybrid Global Publishing edition.
51Rights to my previously published book have reverted to me. I have no files to upload but do have a hard copy of the first publication. Can a hardcopy be used as the source material for the Hybrid Global Publishing edition?
Yes. We can scan printed pages of the previously published book. There are some limitations to this process, such as nability to easily make changes to the text as well as complexities converting to digital format. Scanning process is a Custom Service that incurs additional cost. Please contact your Account Management Representative (ARM) for further information. We recommend that you check with your previous publisher to see if they can provide you with a print-ready file. They may be willing to do so for a fee that is less than the cost of scanning and it will speed the publication process for the Hybrid Global Publishing edition.