The Small Publishers Association of North America (SPAN) emerged out of a need for energized, decisive leadership. When COSMEP folded in February of 1996, a void was left in our industry. We are committed to filling that void--to being your best, most creative, most dynamic source for revenue-generating information and money-saving tips.
Savvy authors who seek to more effectively promote and sell their own books are also welcome. SPAN is your unique outreach opportunity to network with smaller presses who may be interested in publishing your manuscript.
Our vision is to be a beacon of light for small presses and self-publishers, to create entrepreneurial opportunities for new publishers to take their place in this rich tradition while providing existing independent press with powerful tools to foster faster growth. Together, we can form a strategic alliance to celebrate this exciting movement and forge a partnership of vitality and prosperity.
Those in independent publishing are possessed of a generosity of spirit. This same attitude of givingness is part of the SPAN tradition: we nurture you as a member, have faith in your vision, offer you a sense of community. SPAN sets the standard for independent publishing as we move into the new millennium.
The outpouring of letters and notes that accompanied many of your SPAN membership checks was so gratifying. We wish we could thank each of you personally. The comments have ranged from "I can't think of any two people better able to form up the new organization and make it hum" to "I totally support you," from "Thanks for taking up the slack" to "How truly fortunate our industry is to have you two taking hold of this void and producing a vehicle for us."
Another said, "Your enthusiasm is contagious and I know you will bring your dynamic and forceful energy to SPAN." They go on and on: "Thanks for your contribution to our field," "A professional organization for self-publishers and small presses is definitely a must. Many thanks for forming SPAN," and "I believe in you both and feel that you will lead us in a great way." What a vote of confidence! What a challenge you give us! We vow to continue doing our best to deserve your trust.
But good intentions go only so far. An organization needs vision. Planning. Financial stability. Management capability. We will not take from the many to benefit the few. Each program must be self sustaining in its own right. We intend to assure SPAN's financial health by carefully analyzing, monitoring, and controlling useful programs and services for you, our valued members.
