Module: PUB5000-20 The Book Publishing Industry

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Jason Bennett

Module Tutor Contact Details: j.bennett2@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module gives you an understanding of the contemporary book industry landscape and authoritative sources of up-to-date information. You will also learn how to present information professionally online through various website projects undertaken in the module.

You will become familiar with how the book business works, research established and up-and-coming industry figures, conglomerates and independent publishers, and explore how the industry has been revolutionised since the advent of digital technologies by companies such as Amazon and Google. The ethical and legal considerations in publishing will be covered to ensure there is an awareness of the important questions to ask when dealing with authors, and with copyright in text and images.

You will be introduced to the principles and techniques of book marketing and sales (from press releases and marketing plans to pricing and category sales figure trends, including the role of Nielsen) involved in getting a book into the hands of its intended reader and raising its profile. You will also examine new opportunities for book promotion including literary festivals, prizes, and role of authors and social media.

Visiting publishers share expertise, offer insights into particular areas of the industry and the chance to expand your professional networks.

2. Outline syllabus:

• Contemporary book industry and digital developments

• Who’s who in book publishing

• Marketing and sales

• Book promotion: social media, festivals, prizes

• Writing and editing for web

• Website development and customisation (e.g. Wordpress)

• Copyright, legal and ethical considerations (e.g. IP)

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Learning will be through workshops, technical demos, progress reviews and feedback, and industry talks.

Teaching and Learning resources include technical demonstrators; technical facilities including specialist publishing software, iPads, iPhones, cameras, and Kindles; online library resources/ access to international journals and reference works; and websites.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Marketing report (1,500 words)

• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Personal website or equivalent (equivalent to 3,500 words)

• % Weighting: 70%