Red_Room

For public libraries, it's the best of times and the worst of times: Usage is skyrocketing, but budgets are being slashed. What to do? A few thriller authors are stepping in -- and using their time and fame to help organize fund-raising events for libraries. The goal is to create a national movement.

To those outside the publishing industry, the deals that get covered in the press might give the impression that book auctions are as rare as solar eclipses. In fact, they happen with remarkable regularity. But that doesn't mean they're any less nerve-wracking for authors.

When Cupid slings his arrow, it can hit you right in the wallet. What's the economically challenged lovebird to do? Well, luckily, a sense of humor is still free. Here are some tips -- and some what-not-to-do's, including some of Ed Begley's ill-fated money-savers.

Many writers are discovering the wonders (and extensive rewards) of self-publishing, but there are still places where professional representation can be be well worth the trouble. The confusing but often lucrative world of international sales is an example.

Planning on a career as a writer? Getting started can be costly -- advances are often elusive -- so you'll often have to dig into your own pockets to cover the cost of doing research. Doing that within your means is the key. Here are eight tips for doing great research on a budget.

A novelist realizes that a book she wrote 20 years ago -- now out of print -- can be revived today as an e-book. Here's the story of how she took that old print volume and turned it into an e-book, complete with new title, new cover -- and new royalties!

Lost book sales can't be quantified, making it impossible to calculate e-piracy's full economic impact. But the sheer number of illegal copies available for download gives an idea of the scope. It translates into a staggering amount of royalties being stolen from authors.

As electronic media accounts for a larger and larger portion of the book business, consumers are benefiting from lower prices for books, and manufacturers are enjoying massive sales. But how is the e-book revolution affecting authors? It's opening new opportunities -- but no guarantees.

The quality of an audiobook truly hinges on its narrator. The best ones use their voice talents and training to deliver the feeling behind the author's intent. Here, a writer explains what goes into audiobooks -- and why they can boost an author's audience.

Witnessing poverty first-hand in India made a bestselling author realize "that the version of poverty held by most Americans is an ideal for comfortable wealth in many Third World nations." Here, she explains how she puts that into action every day, especially during the holidays.