Main Points

The book is the oldest form of mass communication. Early books were printed by hand until the invention of movable type and the printing press.
In early America, publishers were also printers. Books became more popular during the 17th and 18th centuries.
From 1900 to 1945, the book publishing industry became more commercialized. Continuing consolidation has resulted in a modern book industry that is dominated by a few large companies.
The digital revolution may change the underlying structure of the book industry. Authors may self-publish their works on the web. New reading devices will make the e-book more convenient, and printing on demand will make narrow-interest books more accessible.
The book industry consists of publishers, distributors, and retailers. The emergence of online booksellers has changed the way books are sold and distributed.
Despite some ups and downs, book publishing has been profitable during the past few decades.

2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education
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