Visit by Geoff Fisher of Antony Rowe

26^th February 2008

We had a very illuminating presentation by Geoff Fisher Sales Manager of Antony Rowe, probably the largest print-on-demand company in the UK. We were joined by members of Reading, Caversham and Thatcham writers’ groups.

Geoff pointed out that the company, Antony Rowe is not a ‘self-publisher’ but a ‘book manufacturer.’ This means that anyone wanting to use their services has to have their type-setting already prepared and sent to them on a disc. Bearing this in mind, he gave us a list of recommendations and pitfalls to be avoided. For instance he said that each line of text should contain 7 to 10 words and that margins are important so there should be a page-plan. He showed us samples of badly margined books which were difficult to read. He also gave recommendations on the paper type and size and type-faces to use. He also showed the company website (www.antonyrowe.co.uk/) into which you can put your requirements, including how many copies you want, and it will give an instant quote. This is something the Circle will consider when needing to print this year’s anthology but is also useful to anyone intending to self-publish.