In the rapidly evolving world of publishing, it’s easy for indie authors to get pigeonholed into limited opportunities that might feel like the only game in town. But what if I told you that while everyone is busy hustling on Amazon, they're missing out on reaching 90 percent of potential readers worldwide? I’m Julie Trelstad, and today we’re diving into why going beyond Amazon is crucial for building a sustainable publishing career.

Let’s put this into perspective. The U.S. and the four largest European book markets account for just 10 percent of global digital readership. This means that sticking solely to Amazon might keep you in the dark from the other 90 percent of the potential global audience.

Traditional publishing entities have long built robust distribution networks to tap into these vast markets. However, thanks to platforms like StreetLib, indie authors and small publishers can now access these networks without navigating the cumbersome gatekeeping process.

StreetLib: Your Passport to Global Distribution

So, what is StreetLib, and why should it matter to you? StreetLib is a dynamic eBook distribution service that connects your work with over 300 online bookstores and 60,000 libraries across more than 170 countries. Think of it as your publishing passport.

StreetLib simplifies the distribution process, making it as smooth and user-friendly as possible. From a single dashboard, you can manage everything—uploads, pricing, analytics, and updates—without needing to juggle multiple accounts across various retailers.

Benefits of Wide Book Distribution

Authors serious about making a living focus intensely on data and trends. In 2022, eBook sales in the U.S. rose by 8 percent, hitting 526 million units. Fascinatingly, self-published titles accounted for half of these sales, translating to $874 million.

Globally, digital reading is exploding. Asia represents nearly half of the activity, with significant numbers also in Scandinavia, China, India, and Africa, where millions of readers could discover your work—if only they could find it.

Debunking the Cannibalization Myth

Here’s an industry secret: distributing eBooks globally won’t cannibalize your existing sales. Studies consistently show that readers who purchase more eBooks are inclined to buy more print and audiobooks. Different formats cater to readers at different times and in different places.

What Sets StreetLib Apart?

StreetLib was purpose-built from the ground up with the author in mind. It offers real-time analytics accessible from one dashboard, flexible pricing controls that enable strategic pricing plans across various countries, and support for multiple formats like EPUB and PDF. Crucially, any changes or updates go live within 48 hours, ensuring your content is always up-to-date.

The platform’s non-exclusive model gives you freedom and control—distribute the same content alongside Amazon or any other platform. With StreetLib, you can leverage both free and paid plans that scale with your publishing journey.

How to Get Started

Getting started with StreetLib is straightforward. Simply sign up for a free account on streetlib.com, upload your book, choose your distribution channels, set your prices, and you’re off to reach readers around the world. For those needing help with formatting, StreetLib offers an online converter to create professional eBook files or provides affordable services to handle it all for you.

Are you ready to unlock your potential with global distribution? The eBook market is growing rapidly, with or without your work in it. The question is whether you'll seize the opportunity to capture your share. Don’t let your career be limited by borders—think globally, act strategically, and empower your publishing future with StreetLib.