When self-publishing books first took off, publishing companies were on the sidelines and suddenly dealing with many new competitors. But it wasn't long until some figured out a way to participate with hybrid publishing. As any literary agent or book promotion expert will tell you, having a respected publishing house's imprint on a book is impressive – and the hybrid model allows authors to help fund the initial effort. It's been a boon to both sides and adds a third model to book publishing. Still, many authors and organizations publish independently but now have more options.

Under a hybrid publishing arrangement, authors fund much of the process, but higher-quality publishers only accept their books if they are excellent. Publishing houses employ many of the world's most successful and effective content professionals. Therefore, working with them, especially editors and cover designers, can be a significant advantage for your book. The hybrid model can employ either print-on-demand digital printing for your book or use a classic offset process, depending on the quantity you're comfortable you can sell. You'll participate at every stage of the decision-making.

The route you choose often depends on budget, and authors who can afford to work with hybrid houses often do. They enjoy the advantages and have a better chance of propelling their books to respectable sales and the desired notoriety. Many CEOs and professional practices leaders these days become authors for the publicity a book tour (or virtual tour) can generate. It's challenging to earn coverage for businesses alone, but books are seen as newsworthy, and there can be a PR spillover effect. The value of a book publicity campaign can continue for many years after it has concluded.

Hybrid publishing is yet another way that quality books reach readers today. The one for sure is that the industry will continue to evolve, and more authors will participate. Few would have predicted the stratospheric rise of non-traditionally published books not many years ago. It also has allowed the voices of many more writers to be found in print and gives readers more choices. In the United States, book reading and buying among younger people are on the rise, which is a tribute to the evolving content available. Those who are finding the most success are the ones who are adapting to recent changes.