Book proofs, or galleys, are used to check the printing of the book before the printer starts producing multiple copies. Many professional book printers will send you a hardcopy proof as part of the printing process, but some send only digital files. (If you want a hardcopy book proof, make sure it’s included in the price when you request an estimate from the printer.) Book proofs are also used as advance review copies to send out to book reviewers, magazines and industry professionals who might review the book. These proofs are usually bound, but they may be missing illustrations or other final materials, and be printed in black and white on lower quality paper.
Instructions
Print a Book Proof
1. Proofread your text before sending it the printer. Although you can make corrections after the book proofs and before the final copies, the printer may charge extra for any changes at this stage, so it’s best to catch all mistakes as early as possible.
2. Research book printers on the web. If all you need are simple unbound pages, you may be able to use a laser printer or a local copy shop, but if you want a perfect bound (paperback) book, it may be less expensive to choose a printer that specializes in book printing and binding.
3. Make sure the book printer offers all the services you need. If you only need a small quantity of book proofs (for example, to send as advance review copies), you may want to choose a printer that specializes in short-run printing.
4. Get a quote for your book or galley proofs from several book printers, based on the number of pages in the book, the paper quality and size, the number of copies and the time needed to complete the job. If you want book proofs printed now and final books printed later, you may or may not want to choose the same printer for both jobs.
5. Compare the quotes and select a printer. Make sure the quote includes all the services you need, such as a hardcopy proof if you want one and shipping if the printer is not local. Some quotes may appear less expensive than others simply because fewer services are included.
6. Follow the printer’s specifications to prepare and submit your book to the printer. Most book printers charge less if you send them an electronic document, such as PDF file.
7. Review the proofs carefully. Check for any last-minute typos, as well as any printing mistakes. Submit any changes to the printer before the final book printing.
