National Book Network to Close, Offers Clients Transition to Simon & Schuster

The publishing industry is witnessing another significant shift as National Book Network (NBN), the book distributor established in 1986 by Jed Lyons, prepares to close its doors. The decision comes after a series of strategic sales by Lyons, including the sale of Rowman & Littlefield’s academic publishing division to Bloomsbury and the sale of Sundance Newbridge to Lerner Publishing Group earlier this year.

Transition Options for Publishers

NBN clients will have the option to transition their distribution agreements to Simon & Schuster (S&S) under their existing financial terms. Lyons emphasized that this is an option rather than a mandatory move, stating, “We and [S&S] are picking up the cost for the move. We hope that most of them come with us.”

For publishers who opt not to join S&S, their existing contracts with NBN will guide the termination process. In a letter to clients, Lyons assured that NBN warehouses will remain operational until at least the end of 2024, ensuring a smooth transition for publishers.

A Collaborative Transition

To handle the influx of clients, S&S plans to hire NBN’s entire sales team, ensuring continuity for publishers. “We anticipate that your primary points-of-contact will remain the same throughout the transition process,” Lyons wrote. This measure is intended to minimize disruptions as publishers adjust to the new distribution framework.

Additionally, S&S will cover the packing and shipping costs of publisher inventory, providing financial relief and logistical support to ease the transition.

Lyons Reflects on NBN’s Legacy

In his communication with clients, Lyons explained that the decision to close NBN stemmed from the sale of Rowman & Littlefield. “We have concluded that remaining a standalone distribution business is no longer viable,” he wrote. Despite this conclusion, Lyons expressed optimism about the future, hoping that most clients will choose to transition to S&S.

NBN warehouses will continue to support operations for its clients, Bloomsbury titles, and its own remaining business through mid-2025. Lyons reassured publishers, stating, “Nothing is going to change for the next six months.”

Industry Implications

This transition highlights the growing consolidation in the publishing industry, as smaller distribution networks merge with larger players to remain competitive. The shift also marks a new chapter for Globe Pequot, another Lyons-owned company, which will be distributed by Simon & Schuster in North America starting in late 2025.

For publishers and industry observers, this transition underscores the importance of adaptability in a rapidly evolving landscape. While NBN’s closure marks the end of an era, its partnership with S&S provides a pathway for publishers to continue thriving under new management.

Stay tuned for updates as publishers navigate this significant transition, shaping the next phase of book distribution.