In response to reader requests, Kalmbach Publishing Co. launched its first-ever digital version of Astronomy magazine today on the Barnes & Noble Nook e-reader. From the Nook Newsstand, users of this increasingly popular hand-held device can now order single issues or subscribe directly on their Nook wherever they have a Wi-Fi connection.
Starting with the June 2011 issue, Astronomy is available for the single-copy price of $5.95. Nook users choosing to subscribe to the world’s best-selling astronomy magazine will receive each copy for $3.50 — a discount of more than 40% off the single-issue price. Moreover, Barnes & Noble does not charge Nook subscribers the traditional full subscription amount up front but instead conveniently debits their credit card $3.50 per issue automatically once a month.
Readers of the new digital Nook version of Astronomy magazine will experience the same stunning images of celestial objects, the latest firsthand updates about how the universe works from leaders in the field and, of course, the equipment reviews, advice, and tips that make Astronomy magazine the number-one choice of dedicated observers worldwide. In addition, the digital version will be available the same day that printed copies appear on the newsstand. Nook subscribers sacrifice nothing, and also gain the convenience of every new issue appearing automatically on their Daily Shelf bearing a “New” banner to signal its arrival.
Astronomy joins a growing selection of top consumer publications available on the Nook, which includes National Geographic, O, The Oprah Magazine, Reader’s Digest, and Rolling Stone, to name a few. In addition, Kalmbach Publishing Co. also made available today its premier magazines Discover and The Writer via the Nook Newsstand. (Single-copy and subscription rates for those titles may vary.)
According to Barnes & Noble CEO William Lynch earlier this year*, the company now “represents 25 percent of the e-book market in the U.S., larger than our share in physical books.” Lynch added that the book-selling giant sells more than twice as many e-books as physical books via its website, and that Barnes & Noble intends to “be a leader in the exploding market for digital content.” There is little doubt that the Nook digital platform provides an incredible reading experience now, and, given the company’s commitment, one that will only grow in the future.
First-time subscribers to the digital Nook version of Astronomy receive a 14-day trial period in which to enjoy the digital magazine. If they elect to cancel the subscription within 14 days, Barnes & Noble will not charge their credit card. There is absolutely no reason not to check out Astronomy’s new digital format on your Nook!
* “B&N: Nook has 25 percent of U.S. e-book market,” David Carnoy, February 23, 2011, http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20035277-1.html, retrieved May 12, 2011.