SPA PUBLICATIONS

"The only guide to the thriving Scottish publishing scene."
Writer's News

Our Directory of Publishing in Scotland is an invaluable guide to the Scottish book world. This fully updated and expanded fourteenth edition is packed with clear, comprehensive information, contacts and advice for writers, students, librarians, publishers, booksellers, printers and freelancers. An essential reference for anyone interested in the Scottish book business.

The new edition is NOW available, priced £9.99, excluding postage and packing. Contact enquiries@publishingscotland.org to place your order. Credit card orders can be made with BookSource on 0845 370 0067.

"It is brilliant! It has just the right information, clearly set out and with the most important details... I'll be dipping into it constantly."
Iona Lister, writer

'Thirtieth Anniversary of the Scottish Publishers Association: A Celebration'. This commemorative book charts thirty years of the SPA, Scottish publishing and Scottish literary culture. Illustrated throughout, and with a foreword specially written by Alexander McCall Smith, author of the hugely popular No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, this volume is an enjoyable tribute to Scottish publishing's many successes.

" ... every publishing student should read this ... "
Stirling University Graduate

This limited edition volume is available in both hardback (£25) and paperback (£10) formats. Please email enquiries@publishingscotland.org to place your order.

TIPS ON GETTING PUBLISHED
Here are some general instructions about submitting work to publishers which should help you to go about it in the best possible way.

The most important starting point is to find publishing companies who specialise in the type of work you have produced or are proposing to produce. Use the information on this website about Scottish publishers' interests and submission instructions, check the listings in the Writers' & Artists' Yearbook, and browse the relevant subject section in your local bookshop or library.

Before despatching your manuscript speak to the appropriate publishers to ascertain whether they are commissioning new work and whether they are happy to view unsolicited material. Most publishers prefer a brief, businesslike letter (detailing the book's potential readers, what it is about and what is unique about it), a synopsis of its contents and a sample chapter. Check whether this material is acceptable by e-mail.

Many publishers prefer approaches to be made through literary agents. Check all these details first and you will save time and money. Keep a copy of anything you send to publishers or agents, and always enclose return postage.

Does the Scottish Publishers Association publish or read authors' work?
What do literary agents do and how do I find them?
Do publishers accept unsolicited manuscripts?
Do I hold copyright over my work?
Should I send my work to several publishers at the same time?
How should I present my manuscript?
Should I publish my book myself?
Can I become a member of the SPA if I self-publish?
A publisher has asked me for payment towards publishing my book - should I pay?

CAREERS IN PUBLISHING
I am looking for work in the Scottish publishing industry - how do I go about finding which jobs are available?
I would like to work as a freelance proofreader/copy-editor. Any advice?

FOR PUBLISHERS
How do I go about getting permission to use some copyright material?
What is an ISBN?
What is the difference between a printer and a publisher?