OpenBooks: The Internet Made Me Buy Lit

Summary

In this insightful panel discussion, Kerry Bernal, author and CBeebies personality, hosts a conversation with industry professionals Elle Jones, Kerry English, and Mubarak Alma Barrack about the digital landscape of book publishing. They delve into the impact of the internet on book discovery, the importance of metadata and social media for publishers and booksellers, and the power of community in the book industry. The panelists share their experiences, the role of data in marketing, and offer advice for aspiring professionals, highlighting the dynamic opportunities within the digital book world.

Takeaways

• 📚 The importance of digital presence in the book industry is highlighted, with online platforms and social media playing a significant role in book discovery and promotion.
• 🌐 Metadata is crucial for online visibility, encompassing all elements seen on websites like Amazon or bookshop.org, which influence consumer decisions.
• 🎥 Video content and social media channels, such as YouTube and TikTok, are vital for engaging with audiences and showcasing books in the digital landscape.
• 💻 Data analysis is essential for understanding audience demographics and preferences, as well as for optimizing marketing strategies in the book industry.
• 📈 The use of data can inform publishers about which books to promote, how to engage readers, and can even revive interest in older titles through targeted marketing.
• 🛍️ Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores by directing a portion of sales to them, emphasizing the value of community and local businesses in the book industry.
• 👩‍🎨 The role of a book cover as a 'face' of the book is underscored, with its impact on marketing, recognition, and sales.
• 🔍 The script emphasizes the value of internships and continuous learning in the creative industry, as well as the importance of pursuing one's passion despite initial discouragement.
• 📝 The significance of reading widely and staying engaged with the book community is stressed for anyone aspiring to work in the book industry.
• 💡 Creativity and innovation within digital roles in publishing are encouraged, as they offer flexibility and opportunities to explore new ideas and passions.
• 🔑 The script suggests that persistence, research, and networking are key to breaking into the book industry and developing a career path.

Q & A

What is the event 'Internet Made Me Buy It' about?

The event 'Internet Made Me Buy It' is part of Open Books and focuses on the digital landscape and the future of publishing, exploring the influence of the internet on book discovery and pop culture.

Who is Kerry Bernal and what are her roles?

Kerry Bernal is the author of 'Wilder the Midnight' and other titles. She is also known for her appearances on CBeebies. In this event, she is the host, facilitating the conversation with professionals in the book industry.

What is the significance of metadata in the publishing industry according to Elle Jones?

Metadata is crucial as it includes all the information seen on online retail websites like Amazon or bookshop.org, which is essential for book discoverability and online presence.

What is the role of Kerry English at bookshop.org?

Kerry English is the Marketing and Editorial Manager at bookshop.org, an online platform that supports independent bookshops by directing a portion of the sale price to them.

How does Mubarak Alma Barrack describe his role in brand and digital marketing?

Mubarak Alma Barrack is the Head of Brand and Digital Marketing at Penguin Michael Joseph. His role involves managing partnerships, brand presentation, messaging, and marketing strategies across digital platforms.

What advice does Mubarak give to those aspiring to work in the creative industry?

Mubarak suggests that one should follow their passion and not be intimidated by the industry. He emphasizes the importance of internships and continuous learning in the ever-evolving field of digital marketing.

Why is the digital presence of publishers and booksellers important for book promotion?

Digital presence is vital as it allows publishers and booksellers to connect directly with readers, participate in online communities, and leverage social media platforms to create new bestsellers and revive interest in older titles.

What is the role of bookshop.org in supporting independent bookstores?

Bookshop.org acts as an online platform for buying books that supports independent bookstores by ensuring a significant portion of each sale goes to these local businesses, helping them compete in the predominantly online book market.

How can young people interested in the book industry leverage social media?

Young people can use social media to engage with the book community, share their passion for reading, and demonstrate their knowledge and interest in books, which can be beneficial when applying for roles in the industry.

What is the importance of data in the book industry?

Data is important for understanding audience demographics, tracking the performance of marketing campaigns, and making informed decisions about publishing and promoting books.

What are some of the challenges and opportunities in the digital roles within the book industry?

Challenges include keeping up with rapidly changing digital trends and technologies. Opportunities lie in the ability to experiment with new ideas, engage with online communities, and influence publishing decisions based on digital insights.