Thomas Nelson is to give consumers free access to audio and electronic editions of some of its books.

The NelsonFree program that lets purchasers of print copies download listening and reading digital versions at no extra cost will initially be limited to titles from its Business and Culture division, but could be extended to other categories if successful.

NelsonFree launches later this month with Scott McKain's Collapse of Distinction and Michael Franzese's I'll Make You an Offer You Can't Refuse, retailing for $24.99 and $22.99, respectively. The program will be promoted on the covers with a red logo. Ten other Nelson titles will be made available in the format before the end of the year.

"The book is, in a sense, trapped by its format," said Joel Miller, publisher of Nelson's Business and Culture division, "and so is the consumer-locked into choosing one format over another or shelling out scarce funds for the same book in different wrappers. By freeing the book we free the reader to get greater use and enjoyment of our titles."

Nelson President and CEO Michael Hyatt said: "I believe that the industry is shifting and we, as publishers, need to explore new methods of getting our content into the hands of customers. NelsonFree will give readers a new level of value and flexibility. It will enhance their literary experience and allow greater employment of the content without breaking the bank."

While the announcement was welcomed by others in the industry for its innovative thinking, the initiative has raised concerns for some about the potential loss of royalty income to authors.

Read the full report in the April 6 issue of Christian Retailing.

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