Overview
Our Vision
'To become the lead body for the publishing sector in Scotland
by helping to create an environment that allows publishers,
writers, and content producers to innovate; and to play a part in
fostering excellence in the production and delivery of creative
content in the 21st century.'
Publishing Scotland is the network, trade and development body
for the book publishing sector in Scotland.
We represent a wide range of publishers and suppliers - both
print and digital. Publishers include HarperCollins, Canongate, Edinburgh University
Press, Sandstone Press, Saraband and Witherby
Publishing Group, as well as the publishing divisions
of the National Galleries
of Scotland, Historic Environment Scotland, the Society of
Antiquaries of Scotland and the National Museums of
Scotland.
Other members are part of the network category and include
companies and organisations affiliated to the publishing sector
such as the Society of
Authors in Scotland, the Booksellers
Association, Nielsen Book, agents, designers
and freelance editors.
We act as the voice and network for publishing, to develop and
promote the work of companies, organisations and individuals in the
industry, and to co-ordinate joint initiatives and partnership.
Publishing Scotland grew from the work of the Scottish
Publishers Association (SPA), a trade association in existence for
nearly 40 years. Representing more than 60 book and journal
publishers, the SPA expanded its remit and changed its name in 2007
to reflect the changing nature of publishing.
We are the majority shareholder in a book distribution company,
BookSource, based outside
Glasgow, which we set up in 1995. We also manage an online portal,
BooksfromScotland.com,
which features thousands of Scottish-interest titles.
Our Aims
- To develop and promote the work of companies in the publishing
sector to an international audience
- To foster public understanding of the unique value of books and
other published materials in the cultural and political life of the
nation
- To promote the status of publishing in Scotland
- To run a first-class skills and training programme for the
sector
- To develop a comprehensive network of publishers, content
creators and service providers to allow access to key markets,
information, and opportunities
- To provide members with useful current information on trade
conditions, government activities and policies and other matters of
concern
- To stand as a framework within which publishers from all
sectors can work together to advance their particular and common
interests; to serve as an authoritative voice for Scottish-based
publishing, at home and overseas
Membership
There are two kinds of membership: publisher for publishing
companies and organisations, and network for associated
organisations and individuals who work with the publishing
sector.
If you are interested in joining us, find out more about membership or
contact Lucy Feather, Member Services Manager.
Governance
Publishing Scotland is a registered charity (SC009404), governed
by a main board of trustees with responsibility for overall policy
setting and financial matters. We are also a company limited by
guarantee (SC317586).
Publishing Scotland acknowledges the generous support from Creative Scotland, and is also
funded partly by annual subscriptions from the membership, and by
earned income from activities and revenue from the trading
subsidiary, BookSource.