How to Save Books A new model for publishers

February 22, 2012 - 10:43am — Blake

First: Pricing is set too low, margins get squeezed.
Second: Piracy runs rampant.
Third: A la carte sales whittle down revenues.

Congress should join the other countries that have major book industries in passing a Fixed Book Price Agreement, in which booksellers and publishers agree on what price books may be sold nationally--i.e., no $25 books selling for $10 at Costco. In France and other nations, studies have shown that FBPAs protect independent stores, increase the diversity and quality of titles sold, and support more authors.