Books Nearby

Do books in print still matter to you? If you say "yes," then you'll like Books Nearby and the first three books I'm developing, along with a soon-to-be-launched website (click covers above for a brief description of each book).

Most of us still love printed words on paper to hold and read, to keep within reach, and to share with others. Yes, we increasingly turn to electronic devices for information and communication, but traditionally printed books remain strong and growing as ways we're entertained and inspired.

Here's proof: the Association of American Publishers says publishing industry revenue in 2015 totaled nearly $28 billion. Publishers Weekly found sales in 2016 of printed books rose 3.3%, with adult nonfiction books up 6.9%. History and travel books alone rose 5%. Books Nearby, with its focus on local history, attractions, and arts and crafts, should find a growing potential audience, with readers eager to buy these books.

The promise:

• Books Nearby will delight, inspire, and entertain readers with familiar and insider looks at their favorite places, as well as places new to them.
• Readers will get one-of-a-kind reading experiences through top-quality, keepsake publications, created by talented and experienced writers, designers, and photographers who are deeply connected to the subjects of these books.
• At booksnearby.com readers will learn about the company's books and be able to interact with fellow readers. Eventually, an online book club will let readers share thoughts about what they're reading and discover places to find their favorite books.

Your contribution of whatever amount will help me launch the Books Nearby website and publish the first book Nantucket in 100 Objects, planned for spring 2019. Please note that unlike most other funding sites, Go Get Funding allows great flexibility for startups, without demanding a specific fundraising goal nor promising return of funds raised if the stated goal is not met.

That noted, I've chosen a first-stage fundraising goal that will enable me to finish basic business filings, launch booksnearby.com, and keep working through the winter on contents for the books. Even part of this initial funding goal will help me get the business started, so your help, large or small, will be a much appreciated investment in the promise of this business. You'll get a personal thank you from me and more, depending on the size of your contribution.

For these and future publications from Books Nearby, I'll draw from my years of experience in launching two magazines on Nantucket and my published articles. I welcome your ideas and proposals. If you're interested in a larger financial role in helping me launch and build Books Nearby, I'll happily consider startup partners. The in-depth proposal includes more detailed visions for each of the first three books and initial marketing and sales plans. That proposal can be found at the Books Nearby startup proposal.