Publishing a book is a significant accomplishment for any author. It requires time, dedication, and trust in the publishing process. However, what happens when the publisher you’ve chosen suddenly goes out of business? The recent downfall of Scribe Media serves as a stark reminder that even established publishing companies can face unexpected challenges. In this article, you’ll find guidance for authors who find themselves in this unfortunate situation. Whether you were in the process of publishing with a now-defunct publisher (like Scribe Media) or have already published with one, we’ll explore the steps you can take to protect your work and move forward.
Current State of Scribe Media
As of June 2023, Scribe Media is no longer in business. The company’s assets have been sold off, and its employees have been laid off. It is unclear what will happen to the books that were in progress at the time of Scribe Media’s closure. It’s also currently unclear what led to the downfall, but the end of Scribe Media has rocked the publishing industry, leaving many authors stranded or confused about where their publishing projects stand.
“Scribe Media was a powerhouse in the publishing space and it has shocked us all that seemingly overnight they are out of business. It saddens me to think about how many authors’ works are caught in limbo as a result of their closure.” – Jenn T. Grace, Founder of Publish Your Purpose
If Your Book Hasn’t Been Published Yet
If you were in the process of having your book published with a publisher that suddenly went out of business, this section is for you!
Review Your Publishing Contract
When you receive news of your publisher’s closure, it’s crucial to review your publishing contract thoroughly and immediately. Understanding the terms and clauses within it will guide your actions moving forward. Look for any provisions related to termination, rights reversion, and potential compensation. This information will provide you with a clearer picture of your options.
Secure Your Rights
When your publisher goes out of business, ensure that you retain the rights to your manuscript and any completed work. If the publishing contract doesn’t explicitly state the reversion of rights in the event of the publisher’s closure, consult with an attorney specializing in publishing law. They can help you navigate the legal landscape and ensure your rights are protected.
If you want a connection to a trustworthy intellectual property attorney, let us know and we’ll connect you! Contact us here.
Request Return of Materials
Contact the defunct publisher and request the return of any materials associated with your book project. This includes edited manuscripts, cover artwork, and promotional materials. By retrieving these files, you can maintain control over your work and have the option to explore alternative publishing avenues.
If you’re going through this, we understand that you may be heartbroken. Your book may mean the world to you! Please don’t give up hope. If you need a friendly ear and a new publisher, connect with us here.
Research New Publishers
Once you have secured your rights, it’ll be time to find a new publisher. This is, of course, disheartening, considering you likely took great care to choose the publisher that just went out of business. But don’t fear! There are many reputable publishers that you can work with. Conduct thorough research to identify reputable hybrid publishers that align with your goals and values.
Consider a Hybrid Publisher Like Publish Your Purpose
If your publisher goes out of business, you may be wondering what to do with your book. One option is to self-publish, but this can be a daunting task. If you’re looking for a more hands-on approach, you may want to consider working with a hybrid publisher like Publish Your Purpose.
Publish Your Purpose is a company that helps authors publish their books with the support of a team of professionals. We offer a variety of services, including editing, design, marketing, and distribution. We are also committed to helping authors amplify their message and make a difference in the world. If you’re looking for a publisher who will help you share your story with the world, Publish Your Purpose is a great option.
- We are a hybrid publisher, which means that we offer a mix of traditional and self-publishing services. This gives authors the best of both worlds: they get the support of a team of professionals, but they also retain control over their book.
- We are committed to helping authors amplify their message and make a difference in the world. We offer a variety of services to help authors market their books and connect with their audience.
- We have a team of experienced professionals who are passionate about helping authors succeed. We offer a personalized approach to publishing, and we are always available to answer questions and provide support.
Check out 9 Questions to Ask a Publisher. This free resource outlines the most important questions to ask a publisher when trying to find the best fit. Download it here for reference later when you do your research!
If Your Book Was Already Published
If you have already published a book with a publisher that just went out of business, this section is for you!
Assess the Impact
Let’s say you already published your book with Scribe Media. It’s essential to understand the implications of them going out of business. Consider the availability of your book, any ongoing marketing efforts, and the royalties you were expecting to receive. Assessing the impact will help you plan your next steps effectively.
Confirm that you retain the rights to your book and its content. This will give you the flexibility to explore alternative avenues without any hindrance.
Retrieve Your Files
Contact the defunct publisher (like Scribe Media) and request copies of all your book files, including the formatted manuscript, cover design, and any additional files associated with your book. By securing these files, you’ll have the necessary materials to ensure the continued availability of your book.
Consider Republishing
Consider republishing your book with a new publisher. Look for publishers who specialize in your genre and have a track record of successfully supporting authors. This transition can provide your book with renewed visibility and potentially open doors to new marketing opportunities.
As we mentioned earlier, Publish Your Purpose is a hybrid publisher dedicated to publishing nonfiction books with a purpose. We offer comprehensive programs tailored to entrepreneurs and business owners looking to make a difference in the world through their books.
Explore our Writing and Publishing offerings to evaluate if we align with your vision and publishing goals.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us directly. We care deeply about getting to know our authors and helping them feel comfortable and take ownership of their book publishing process. In fact, we’ve helped many authors switch their books from defunct publishers to publishing success! We would be happy to help you do the same. Remember, you’re not in this alone!
The Time To Act Is Now
If your publisher has just gone out of business, we are so sorry! And, don’t beat yourself up. There is no way you could have seen this coming. While it may feel like all is lost and your dreams of being a successful author will never come to fruition, this is far from the truth. Take this as an opportunity to find a more sustainable publisher that aligns even better with you and your vision.
At Publish Your Purpose, we understand the importance of getting your book into the hands of readers. If you are an author who is looking for a new publisher, we encourage you to check out our programs. We offer a variety of publishing options that are designed to help you get your book published and distributed.
Want to know how to publish your book? Stay tuned for Jenn T. Grace’s new book—Publish Your Purpose: A Step-By-Step Guide To Write, Publish, and Grow Your Big Idea.
