Self-publishing: experiences and opinions

Once a book is typeset (for example with \LaTeX), you have to get it printed and distributed. If you have a traditional publisher, it takes care of many of the remaining steps. It also typically controls the product more or less in perpetuity. There can be circumstances where it is better to handle the publishing yourself. Over the past several years I have gained considerable experience with self-publishing, using both traditional printing and print-on-demand. This presentation summarizes that experience and a number of the trade-offs, building on the sketch given in a companion presentation on the \TUG\ Interviews Project. As other conference participants are professionally involved in various aspects of publishing, I will also solicit (as part of the presentation) audience input on self-publishing possibilities. My final written presentation submitted to \TUB\ will be augmented by what we learn during the presentation.