Introduction
Self-publishing has become a popular alternative to traditional publishing methods, especially in the digital age. Many authors wonder if they can self-publish their books on Amazon if they have already had them published elsewhere. This article will explore the legal and practical considerations involved in this process, providing clarity and guidance for authors.
Understanding Publishing Contracts
When you sign a contract with a traditional publisher, you agree to certain terms that govern the publication, distribution, and sale of your book. These contracts typically specify the distribution channels, the duration of the contract, and the rights retained by the publisher.
Generally, if you have a contract with a publisher that specifies distribution through Amazon or other channels, the publisher is responsible for getting the ebook and physical book published and sold. Only when your contract expires, and the original publisher does not renew it, can you likely create an eBook or print paperback for sale on platforms like Amazon.
Self-Publishing Rights Post-Contract
Once your contract expires, you may have the right to self-publish your book on Amazon. However, this can depend on the terms of your contract. If the contract explicitly grants you the rights to self-publish, then you can pursue this option. Otherwise, you will need to negotiate or seek legal advice.
It's important to note that if the contract specifies US rights, but you wish to sell outside of the US, you can self-publish on Amazon and disable US distribution. However, design and typesetting are typically the copyright of the publisher and not the author, so these aspects must be handled accordingly.
Vanity Publishers vs. Indie Publishers
The distinction between vanity publishing and indie publishing is crucial when considering self-publishing on Amazon. Vanity publishing is often associated with pay-to-publish schemes where the publisher profits from your payment. In such cases, you typically do not retain the rights to self-publish afterward.
Indie publishing, on the other hand, is when an author retains full control over the publication and distribution of their book. If you have an indie-published book (self-published through a reputable platform like Amazon), you can certainly self-publish and make it available on Amazon without any restrictions.
Trad Conventions and Self-Publishing
If your book was traditionally published, you generally do not have the right to self-publish it. This is because traditional publishers typically retain the rights to distribute the book through their channels. However, there are exceptions, and some contracts may include clauses that allow for self-publication under certain conditions. It's essential to review your contract closely or seek legal advice if you are unsure.
Considerations for Kindle Unlimited and Select
If you have self-published your book and are now considering putting it into Kindle Unlimited or Kindle Select, you need to be aware of the terms of these programs. Kindle Unlimited requires exclusivity, meaning that your book must not be available on other platforms during the contract period. Kindle Select is also exclusive but offers different benefits such as increased exposure and higher royalty rates.
Putting a book into Kindle Unlimited or Select can be a great way to increase its visibility and accessibility. However, if your book is already available on Amazon through your traditional or indie publisher, you might face restrictions. It is important to carefully review the terms of the contracts and the eligibility criteria for these programs to ensure compliance.
Conclusion
Self-publishing on Amazon after your book has already been published elsewhere can be a complex issue, depending on the terms of your publishing contract and the nature of the original publication. Understanding your rights and obligations is crucial. Whether you can self-publish your book on Amazon depends on whether your contract allows it, the type of publishing (vanity, traditional, or indie), and the specific terms of the contracts involved.
For more information or if you are unsure about the specifics, seeking legal advice or consulting with a publishing expert can provide valuable guidance and help you make the right decisions for your publishing journey.