Navigating the world of publishing can often feel as complex as assembling a jigsaw puzzle without all the pieces. For indie publishers, understanding the nuances between subsidiary rights and distribution rights is crucial. In this post, we will demystify these concepts and clear up some common misconceptions.
⚠️ Please note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The author is not a lawyer. For specific legal matters, please consult a qualified legal professional.
The Myth About Subsidiary Rights
Let’s begin by dispelling a prevalent myth: that retailers and distributors might seize your subsidiary rights. Spoiler alert—they don't.
Subsidiary rights are the various ways your work can be repurposed beyond the book form. These include translation, film, and TV adaptations, merchandise, video game rights, and audio rights, among others.
These rights are typically owned by you, the author, or your publisher, unless you decide to sell or license them. It's important to distinguish these from the actions you take when distributing your book to platforms like StreetLib, where you retain these rights.
Distribution Rights Explained
Distribution rights involve granting a non-exclusive license to retailers and distributors, allowing them to sell your book through various channels like Amazon, Apple, and Kobo.
A non-exclusive license means you maintain control, allowing you to distribute your work on additional platforms simultaneously.
Think of the distributor as a delivery service and the retailer as the pizza joint. You own the content; they simply help proliferate it to broader audiences. Crucially, you can decide to withdraw your book at any time and are free to license your other rights as you wish.
Clearing Up Confusion: The Role of Contracts
Many worries stem from contract terms like "authorize" or "marketing rights," which can sound intimidating. These terms relate to distribution mechanics, such as allowing a book preview on platforms like Amazon.
These rights do not entail ownership or modification of your work. Retailers and distributors, including StreetLib, make it clear that they do not gain any rights to your intellectual property.
Rest assured, your subsidiary rights remain untouched, leaving you, the indie publisher, in control of your creative domain. The clarity in these contracts aims to dissipate fear surrounding the misuse or piracy of your work.
Empowering Your Publishing Strategy
The world of publishing, especially when layered with technology, can be a tricky terrain to traverse. However, understanding and managing your rights is integral to protecting your work's value.
Platforms like StreetLib are dedicated to assisting you in safeguarding your creations against piracy and unauthorized use.
If you're seeking guidance on navigating rights contracts or crafting your publishing strategy, plenty of resources are available. Explore educational channels or professional services to ensure your book finds its rightful place in readers' hands.
Empower yourself with knowledge, maintain control over your rights, and confidently steer your publishing career toward success. As indie publishers, we're not just sharing stories; we're shaping the future of publishing itself.