I've been told by a local librarian that he is willing to publish some of my work as ebooks within the library. Is this classed as self-publishing as self-publishing is something I've been advised to avoid? Also how do you decide your work is 'finished' and ready to be published? Do you get a gut feeling or is it something else?
As with anything anyone else is doing "for you" you need to be clear about the legal situation. This would not be as simple as the "automatic contract" implied if you make a purchase - and that has had to be backed up by Acts of Parliament and statutory bodies over several decades.
I only have a vague understanding so far but - you always want to be clear who is paying who for what, by when and where. This is a two-way process - what are you paying and what are you getting paid - and the "when and where" applies both ways.
You need a contract - and a contract needs to be written at least - if not witnessed --- witnessed - on behalf of both sides - is best.
There is going to be a question of who holds the copyright.
It's sad - but in these days it is essential to protect one's efforts.
Think about what happened to a whole lot of famous pop groups and somgwriters - you don't want to get ripped off as they did.
None of which is to say that any individual will try to rip you off - you just have to be careful.
:-)
Hi Damien ah ok then and I will do thank you :)
Anything you write and put out there yourself for people to read is self-publishing so yes... read my post when I put it up on me and self-publishing :(
BUT DO LOOK INTO IT MORE BEFORE YOU SAY NO... Good Luck.