Self-Publishing in the Netherlands: An Author's Experience with Boekengilde

LiteraryWorld Interview | 5 min Read

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For many writers, self-publishing offers traditional publishing often cannot: complete creative control. We recently spoke with an author who successfully published through Boekengilde, one of the Netherlands' established self-publishing platforms, to learn more about their experience and what aspiring authors can expect. In addition to supporting Dutch language publications, Boekengilde can also assist authors who wish to publish their books in English, making it a valuable option for both Dutch and international writers based in the Netherlands.

Taking Control of Your Publishing Journey

According to the author, one of the biggest advantages of working with Boekengilde is the level of control authors retain throughout the entire process.

"As a writer, you have total control," they explained.

This means authors are encouraged to come prepared with a clear vision for their book. Cover design is an area were having a strong idea beforehand can make a significant difference.

"You need to know what you want before you arrive. Be clear from the beginning about how you want your book cover to look."

While Boekengilde provides professional guidance and support, the creative decisions remain firmly in the hands of the author.

Professional Ebook Production

For writers looking to publish digitally, Boekengilde takes care of the technical aspects of ebook production. Manuscripts are professionally formatted and prepared for distribution, allowing authors to focus on writing and marketing their work.

This can be especially valuable for first time self-publishers who may not be familiar with ebook formatting requirements.

Distribution Through the Dutch Book Trade

One of the strongest features highlighted by the author is Boekengilde's connection to Centraal Boekhuis (CB), the central distribution organisation serving the Dutch publishing industry.

Through this network, books can be made available to bookstores, libraries, and other retailers across the Netherlands and Belgium. For independent authors, access to these established distribution channels can significantly increase a book's visibility and reach.

Print on Demand Services

Boekengilde also offers Print on Demand (POD) publishing. This means books are printed only when orders are placed, removing the need for authors to invest in large print runs or manage stock themselves.

Print on Demand has become an increasingly popular option for self-publishers because it reduces financial risk while still allowing readers to purchase physical copies.

Audiobooks: A Future Opportunity

While audiobooks are not currently a major part of the service, the author noted that audiobook publishing may become available in the future.

With the audiobook market continuing to grow internationally, this is an area many independent authors will be watching with interest.

Final Thoughts

For writers considering self-publishing in the Netherlands, Boekengilde offers a combination of creative freedom, professional production support, distribution through Centraal Boekhuis, and flexible Print on Demand services.

The author's advice is simple: come prepared. The clearer your vision for your book, particularly its cover design and publishing goals, the smoother the process is likely to be.

For authors who want to maintain control of their work while benefiting professional publishing support, Boekengilde is a platform worth exploring.