B Harrington
bookmaker, community educator,
library worker
→ About
→ Services
→ Contact
Works
→ Commissions
→ Stationery Bindings
→ Library & Fine Bindings
Community
→ Resources
→ Workshops & Events
B Harrington
bookmaker, community educator,
library worker
→ About
→ Services
→ Contact
Works
→ Commissions
→ Stationery Bindings
→ Library & Fine Bindings
Community
→ Resources
→ Workshops & Events
Self-Publishing & Community
Self-Publishing is a closely related topic to hand bookbinding and zine-making for those whose interest in producing creative and informational materials also includes goals of distribution. This page shares guidance on self-publishing, grant funding opportunities and organizations invested in book arts and independent publishing. It also recommends communities of practice for knowledge sharing, networking, and more.
Outline
Self-Publishing
- Publishing and Book Design Basics (MSU Libraries Guides)
This research guide from Michigan State University Libraries “is designed to help self-publishers with common questions about the logistics of book publishing and basic book design.”
- Independently Published and Self-Published Textual Materials (Library of Congress)
Originally created for Library of Congress staff, this document provides historical information about self-publishing, especially how self-publishing has been used to record and share knowledge among groups historically foreclosed from or underrepresented in traditional publishing. Click the title above to access the document. Click here to jump to the LOC page where this document is linked.
Grants & Funding
- FPBA Inclusivity Fund Grants
This grant offers sums of $500 to “members of diverse racial or ethnic communities” and “groups who, historically, have been less visible in the fine press and book arts community are also encouraged to apply.” Funds can be utilized for a range of needs from project documentation support to funding a new publication.
Book Arts Orgs and Printers
- Center for Book Arts (NYC)
Center for Book Arts “support[s] the [Book Arts] field through education, preservation, exhibitions, studio access, and community building.” CBA is also a key supporter of book artists and offers exhibitions open to the public.
- Printed Matter, Inc. (NYC)
Printed Matter, Inc. is a non-profit “dedicated to the dissemination, understanding and appreciation of artists’ books” that was founded in 1976 in Tribeca, Manhattan. The organization now operates two storefront locations in Manhattan. Here, artists’ books are collected and appreciated as art objects themselves, so it serves as a brick-and-mortar and online space for bookish creatives.
- Outlet PDX (Portland, OR)
Outlet PDX is a queer-owned and run risograph press and printing studio whose website models community support for the creation of printed materials and book arts. Not only does the site host free resources on zine-making, but also details workshops with virtual options. Finally, there are scholarship opportunities to offset the cost of workshops in addition to a standard reservation of 1-2 workshop spots for BIPOC, trans, queer, and/or disabled folks.
- Printers for #BlackLivesMatter [Google Sheet]
This shared document collects printers worldwide who had, at one time, offered free printing or reduced rate services in support of #BlackLivesMatter protests. It remains a record of printer activists for your printing needs.
Communities of Practice
Check here for recommended online communities of practice for connecting with other book workers and bookish artists.- r/BookBinding
The BookBinding subreddit is “A place for bookbinders and their craft. We are open to discussions, sharing of ideas and techniques, general binding chatter and more!“
- Updates to this list are forthcoming