Bookstores and libraries,
through IngramSpark.
IngramSpark connects independent authors to the same wholesale catalog bookstores and libraries order from. We set up your title correctly, so stores can actually find, order and stock it.
Amazon sells books. Ingram gets them on shelves.
Most bookstores and libraries order through wholesalers rather than from Amazon. IngramSpark lists your book in Ingram's distribution catalog, which makes it available to order from a large network of retailers and libraries worldwide.
Getting the setup right matters more here. Wholesale discount, returnability and trim size all affect whether stores are willing to order your book and how much you earn per copy.
We explain the trade-offs honestly and configure your title in your own IngramSpark account to match your goals.
Start With a Free Consultation →What we configure
- Paperback, hardcover and eBook editions
- Dust jacket or case-laminate hardcovers
- Wholesale discount and returns settings
- BISAC subjects and full metadata
- Coordination with your Amazon KDP listing
Wide distribution, configured correctly
Files, metadata and commercial settings that bookstores and libraries expect.
Ingram-Ready Files
Interior and cover files built to IngramSpark specifications, including dust jacket templates.
Discount & Returns
Wholesale discount and returnability chosen to balance store appeal against your earnings per copy.
Metadata & BISAC
Subject codes, keywords, description and contributor details that help buyers find your book.
KDP Coordination
A plan for using KDP and IngramSpark together without conflicts or duplicate listings.
ISBN Guidance
Advice on ISBNs and imprints so your book appears professionally in trade catalogs.
Bookstore Outreach Kit
A sell sheet with ordering details you can give to local stores and libraries.
Using KDP and IngramSpark together
Many independent authors publish their paperback on Amazon through KDP and use IngramSpark for everything else: bookstores, libraries, hardcovers and international retailers. This often gives the best of both, Amazon's direct royalties on Amazon sales and Ingram's reach everywhere else. The setup needs care, especially around ISBNs and expanded distribution settings, which is where we help.
Getting into bookstores
- A competitive wholesale discount makes stores more willing to stock you
- Accepting returns reduces risk for the store, at some risk to you
- A strong cover and clear category placement matter on the shelf
- Local events and author visits help stores sell your book
Distribution makes a book available to order. It does not guarantee shelf placement, which depends on store buyers. Our publicity and launch services can help create demand.
From first call to finished book
Free Consultation
We review your manuscript and goals, explain how IngramSpark publishing fits into your wider plan and recommend the right package. No pressure and no card required.
- Honest package recommendation
- Clear pricing up front
- Answers about rights and royalties
Manuscript Preparation
Editing, cover design and formatting are completed to each platform's specifications, so files pass review the first time.
- Editing to the level you need
- Cover sized for every format
- Interior built to spec
Accounts & Metadata
We set up or connect your publishing accounts in your name, then write the description, keywords, categories and pricing that help readers find the book.
- Accounts owned by you
- Description, keywords and categories
- Pricing and territory strategy
Proof Approval
You approve digital previews and, for print, a physical proof before anything is released for sale.
- Digital and print proofs
- Corrections before release
- Your sign-off required
Go Live & Launch
Your book goes live and we confirm every listing, link the formats together and hand over a launch checklist, with marketing support available if you want it.
- Listings verified and linked
- Author profile set up
- Optional marketing support
Make your book orderable everywhere
Tell us your goals for bookstores, libraries and formats. We will recommend the right setup and a clear quote.
IngramSpark Publishing questions, answered
Straight answers to what authors ask us most.
IngramSpark is a print on demand and distribution platform from Ingram, one of the largest book wholesalers. It makes your book available to bookstores, libraries and online retailers around the world.
Yes. Many authors do. The setup needs care around ISBNs and distribution settings, and we handle that for you.
IngramSpark makes your book available for stores to order. Whether a store stocks it depends on its buyers, and we can help you approach local stores.
It depends on your goals. Higher discounts appeal more to bookstores but reduce your earnings per copy. We explain the trade-off and recommend a setting.
Yes. IngramSpark offers case-laminate and dust jacket hardcovers, and we prepare the jacket template correctly.
IngramSpark setup is included in our wider publishing packages, or can be quoted on its own after a free consultation.
Book your free consultation
Tell us where your book is today. A publishing specialist will review it and send clear, honest next steps, usually within one business day.
Services that work together
Most authors combine two or three services. These pair especially well with this one. Browse all services →
Amazon KDP Publishing
Kindle, paperback and hardcover on Amazon.
Explore Amazon KDP PublishingSelf-Publishing Packages
Editing, cover, formatting and distribution.
Explore Self-Publishing PackagesISBN & Copyright
ISBNs, barcodes, LCCN and copyright filing.
Explore ISBN & CopyrightBook Printing
Author copies, print on demand and offset runs.
Explore Book PrintingFormatting & Typesetting
Print and eBook interiors that look professional.
Explore Formatting & TypesettingBook Publicity & PR
Press releases, media pitches and podcasts.
Explore Book Publicity & PR