Most publishers provide desk copies (academic presses) and/or review copies (both academic and trade publishers) to interested parties upon request. ReaderBound sites often offer this functionality, in the way that is more suited to the workflow of the press.
There are a few ways we can set up desk or review copy requests on ReaderBound client sites.
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The simplest: an email link. This is a clickable email address that pops open the user’s email client. They can immediately send an email requesting the title they are interested in. (See: Wilfrid Laurier University’s review copy requests.)
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Form embed. This is an external form the press is already using to fulfill such requests, such as a Google or Typeform. We embed this code onto a content page and the client controls how the form is used and processed. (See: Gallaudet University Press.)
- ReaderBound desk/exam copy request feature. This starts with a custom-built form on the ReaderBound content management system. We work with the client to set up their desired fields and supporting copy and where the information request goes and/or data is collected (email inbox, spreadsheet, etc.). (See: SUNY Press.)
We then embed request links on every title listing on the site both to make the option more prominent to users and to help drive conversions and course adoptions.
All requests are stored in the website’s content system, and they can be easily reviewed and moderated—that is, approved or declined—by press staff.
A request approval triggers an automatic message to the user, complete with a coupon code that drives the cost of the book to whatever target price the press has set for desk or exam copies. The user then orders the book directly from the website using that one-time-use code. The whole process is highly efficient, both for the user and for staff, and is designed to eliminate friction and extra steps wherever possible—all with the goal of driving up course adoptions and related sales. (A declined request triggers a similarly automated message to the user.)
Desk and review copy distribution is a powerful part of any press’ sales and marketing strategy. And easy and flexible systems are key to making sure this part of your process is smooth and stress-free.
