Learning the Self-Publishing Basics: Using the Open Publishing Guide

August 10, 2009
7-8:30pm
Henrietta Public Library 455 Calkins Rd. Henrietta NY 14623

Available for Download: Presentation from this event on this page

On Monday, August 10, 2009, over 20 people gathered in the Community Room at the Henrietta Public Library to hear Rachael Gootnick give a presentation about self-publishing basics, and how the Open Publishing Guide website can assist individuals in the self-publishing process. She began the evening by asking the attendees how many have previously self-published a book. Not a single person in the room had self-published before. When she asked them how many people were thinking of self-publishing, nearly everyone’s hand shot up in the air.

This presentation was geared towards those people who haven’t published in the past, and by the time the event was finished, everyone left feeling inspired and motivated to begin the self-publishing process.

The event was full of insightful questions from the audience that sparked engaging conversations between Rachael and the attendees. The most popular areas of interest were editing and proof reading options, binding styles, typography, exporting to PDF, and book marketing and distribution. These questions and comments will shape presentations that Rachael gives in the future, as well as content to the OPG website.

Some of the most memorable moments of the evening included a 15 year old girl who was excited to begin self-publishing her poetry, as well as her mother who would like to begin a cookbook. From young to old, there was a wide range of individuals with different skill levels who all wanted to grasp a better understanding of the self-publishing process. Another woman said she printed and bound 50 copies of her life story on her home printer! All the stories shared were inspiring to hear.

The attendees expressed their interest in the Open Publishing Guide and how it would benefit them throughout the process. They also expressed interest in signing up for service packages, including editing and designing their book. They all said they would visit the Open Publishing Guide along their publishing path.

We hope to connect with additional Rochester area libraries to hold similar events in the future. We were very thankful that the Henrietta Public Library was kind enough to let us use their Community Room, as well for making an eye catching sign and newspaper mentions to help increase the number of people registered. If you have interest in attending a similar event relating to self-publishing, please contact us, and we’d be happy to discuss the possibility of holding a community event near you, sometime in the future.

Below are some comments from some of the people who attended the presentation.

“I am looking forward to digging in to your website, exploring marketing and editing and you sprouted many ideas for me. I am excited to putting my ides on paper and create a 3-dimensional item that may last longer than me and touch other people, a gift itself. Thank you for creating and sharing this site – and it’s free!”

“ I had previously been doubting my ability to self-publish, but now, I can’t wait to finish my book!”

“Rachael knows her subject thoroughly and is very articulate in her presentation and answering questions.”

“Presentation was very informative. Style of presentation was interesting and with good body language and enthusiasm. Rachael did a great job!”