Can anyone share any information about how to get a self published book into the AAFES/PX system? I've published through Createspace.

2015-07-07T13:30:52-04:00

http://www.amazon.com/Youth-Asia-L-Tiffany/dp/ [login to see] /ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=

Amazon.com: Youth In Asia: The Vietnam War's 1968 Tet Offensive in The Central Highlands: Young...

Amazon.com: Youth In Asia: The Vietnam War's 1968 Tet Offensive in The Central Highlands: Young men will change. Some will die. (9781511453455): A L Tiffany: Books

Response by SFC Willis Bullard made Jul 7 at 2015 1:52 PM

2015-07-07T13:52:30-04:00

I am not having too much luck with AAFES. However, Cannon AFB reps told me they get their books through a vendor but would allow me to hold a book-signing at the BX. I am just waiting for their paperwork. Good luck and please pass me info if you get an "in".

Response by SSG James Arlington made Jul 7 at 2015 3:27 PM

2015-07-07T15:27:55-04:00

Tough to do. They, like all retailers, have strict distribution contracts with vendors. I have published through a publisher who mainly does ebooks, and their POD operations cannot get me in. I have to approach local bookstores on my own and do consignment.

Response by MAJ Bob Mayer made Jul 14 at 2015 7:58 PM

2015-07-14T19:58:17-04:00

Almost impossible. Essentially, since Createspace is part of Amazon, most bookstores won't rack them. Last time I tried AAFES was years ago, and their system for books was decentralized, mostly served by contractors, who also won't carry Createspace. I focus primarily on eBook sales. The good news is Amazon does sell 30% of all print.

Response by Sgt Ken Prescott made Jul 14 at 2015 9:40 PM

2015-07-14T21:40:22-04:00

Distributors can't carry Createspace books because the Big 6 publishers will cut them off if they do.

Response by SPC Douglas Bolton made Aug 22 at 2015 12:55 PM

2015-08-22T12:55:11-04:00

I checked with a literary agent and they said it is extremely difficult to get into any military bases unless 1) You have been published by a traditional publisher, or 2) have the right connection with one of the main distributors that supply the post exchanges. That shouldn't stop any of us from still knocking on doors. If you have an outstanding book (Don't we all?) they will let you in.