Print on (Immediate) Demand
There was a story in our local paper this morning that promises an interesting future for Print on Demand http://www.oregonlive.com/education/index.ssf/2010/10/portland_state_university_book.html . It seems that Lulu and HP have produced a print-on-demand machine that looks kind of like a large photocopier. Books uploaded and designed in a special section of Lulu can be printed on the spot with no long waits or shipping costs. Portland State University Bookstore is one of three locations trying out these "publishing machines." Professors can provide tailored text books at a fraction of the usual price, and test out the content before committing to the expense of traditional publishing. A 300page novel will cost around $12; a 100page book with color illustrations around $18... And, if I'm reading the article correctly, real people will really be able to publish there. Just think, if this takes off; the machines might be installed in Office Depot or Kinkos, making pri...