Home printers are red-hot this year

In the latest episode of Bókaást, Kristjana Guðbrandsdóttir talks to Eyjólfur Jónsson, a typesetter, and Einar Björn Magnússon, a bookseller at Skálda, about the Icelandic Christmas book flood and the vibrancy found in the Icelandic printing industry.
We look at remarkable books from Litlaprent, Litróf, Prentun, Pixel, and Prentmet Oddi. Many of them are high on the bestseller lists this year, which is truly delightful.

Einar Björn also shows his favourite book works from Skálda by Icelandic authors, and it is clear that the vibrancy and creativity in printing are immense.

The imbalance must be corrected

In the conversation, the interviewees touch upon important issues that could be improved. Eyjólfur points out the importance of correcting a discrepancy in value-added tax that makes things difficult for the Icelandic printing industry. Imported books carry an 11% VAT, while books printed domestically carry a 24% VAT.

Need for better data

Better statistics on books published in Iceland are needed. A review conducted by Deloitte for the Ministry of Culture and Business Affairs, published last year, revealed flaws in the collection of statistical data on book publishing in Iceland, which need to be rectified. The Icelandic Publishers Association annually surveys the printing location of Icelandic books mentioned in the Bókatíðindi (Book Bulletin) of the Association of Icelandic Book Publishers. This year, their survey indicates that 87.2% of books are printed abroad. The number of titles printed domestically and mentioned in the Bókatíðindi is 83, an increase of 21 from the previous year.

Printing in China increases

Printing in China has increased year-on-year from 8.3% to 9.7%. The carbon footprint of books printed in China is heavy, and it would be better to reduce it. Eyjólfur points out that these are children's books in co-printing, printed cheaply, and that they simply would not be published otherwise unless there was substantial and targeted support for children's book publishing.

A challenge to the minister

It is important to think in terms of solutions. Book printing in Iceland is on a rapid rise. Einar Björn and Eyjólfur agree that the grassroots, innovation, and support for smaller print runs are the way to greater growth. Kristjana challenges the minister and the government to better support small publishers and the Icelandic printing industry.

Innovation is important

Innovation is important in the printing industry, and Kristjana showed wrapping paper printed at Litróf and produced in collaboration with the National Gallery of Iceland, featuring artwork by well-known Icelandic artists. Each sheet is designed to bring joy and draw attention to the value of art in daily life.

It is worth noting the fast and good service of the printing houses here at home, many of which offer fast and good printing services, support in publishing, and competitive prices.

Onwards, Icelandic book printing!