Book pricing: publisher, vendor, and library perspectives

Abstract

Purpose

This paper proposes addressing the need for a dialogue among three different institutional forces – publishers, vendors, and libraries – at play in the world of book publishing.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper stems from a panel presentation at the 24th Annual Charleston Conference: Issues in Books and Serials, November 2004. The panelists openly discuss the different practices and needs of their respective organizations.

Findings

Despite an inherent conflict between maximizing savings and value and maximizing profit, all three players can make practical compromises in order to ensure the ongoing viability of monograph publishing.

Originality/value

The article presents a fresh look at how three typically competitive players can work together for the common good of providing books for library patrons, and, will be of value to individuals working in libraries, publishing houses, or vendors.

Citation

Barnes, M., Clayborne, J. and Szasz Palmer, S. (2005), "Book pricing: publisher, vendor, and library perspectives", Collection Building, Vol. 24 No. 3, pp. 87-91. https://doi.org/10.1108/01604950510608258