These are books that have been out for a while but whose rights publishers still possess.
A backlist is a list of books that are no longer new releases, typically older titles that are still available for purchase. In publishing, a backlist is a list of all the publisher’s titles that are still in print. A backlist can also refer to a list of titles from a particular author or genre that a bookstore or library keeps in stock.
There are a few different ways that a book can become a backlist title. The first is if the book was published more than a year ago and is no longer considered a new release. The second is if the book was published by a small press or self-published author and didn’t receive much attention when it was first released, but has since gained a following. The third way a book can become a backlist title is if it was published in a limited edition and is now out of print.
The term “backlist” is most often used in the publishing industry, but it can also be applied to books in general. For example, a bookstore might keep a list of books by a certain author or genre in stock even if they are not new releases. This is because there is still demand for these titles, even though they are not the latest and greatest.
There are a few benefits to having a backlist title. The first is that it can generate income for the author or publisher even years after the book was first released. The second is that it can help an author or publisher to build a reputation and a following. The third is that it can provide a steady stream of income, which can be helpful for small presses and self-published authors.
There are a few drawbacks to having a backlist title as well. The first is that the book might not be as relevant as it once was. The second is that the book might be competing against newer, shinier titles. The third is that the author or publisher might have to do more work to market the book and get it into the hands of readers.
Overall, a backlist can be a helpful tool for authors and publishers, but it is important to consider the pros and cons before deciding whether or not to pursue this option.