On Demand

Last week, I went to one of my favorite independent bookstores in Manhattan: McNally Jackson. If you find yourself in the city, I recommend checking it out. You won't be disappointed. I hadn't been there in a while and I was surprised to see this little contraption:

The Espresso Book Machine

Of course, my first thought was: what the heck is that? After reading the explanation, I immediately took a picture to show all of you.


This gleaming hunk of technology can print books, nearly any book, while you wait. The EBM will be able to find you any millions of books available from the public domain or provided by publishers. The best and dearest books you've never been able to hold before can be yours in minutes. And, dear scribbler, the Espresso Book Machine can print your own book by the copy or by the dozen. The EBM is live and ready. Simply ask a bookseller for help to get started printing your own book.

And, some samples:

Well, there you have it. A bookstore that embraces self publishing. And, in many ways, takes a leap of faith. That you might still want to hold a physical book in your hands. Do you?

UPDATE: Several of you have asked how much it is to print your book. Click here for details. It looks like it is determined by length.