RH Launches Insight Option
Last week, Random House unveiled Insight, a browse-inside-the-book widget for 5,000 titles in its digital library. The RH widget allows digital access to the house's titles and also lets Web hosts grab the functionality for their blogs or other personal Web pages. The widget also comes with a buy link—customizable to any e-tailer—and a word-search function. The Random announcement came a few days after HarperCollins announced the launch of its widget option.
BFO Put in Chapter 7
Christian retail chain Bible Factory Outlet was forced into Chapter 7 bankruptcy on February 22. The company, based in Albertville, Ala., was founded in 1995 and at its peak in 2005 had 70 stores, primarily in the South. By last fall the chain was down to 24 outlets. On February 9, BFO filed Chapter 11 and, at the request of its bank, the bankruptcy was converted to Chapter 7, forcing BFO to close its remaining 24 stores. At press time, BFO still hoped to avoid liquidation.
Katzenberger Heads City Lights
Elaine Katzenberger has been named executive director of City Lights Booksellers and Publishers. She is taking over for Nancy Peters, who is co-owner of the bookstore and publishing company with founder Lawrence Ferlinghetti. Katezenberger joined City Lights in 1987 and has worked in both the bookselling side of the business and the publishing company, most recently as v-p and associate director. As executive director, Katzenberger will oversee the day-to-day operations of the entire company.
Lyons Press to Publish '7'
Lyons Press has acquired Peter Golenbock's 7: A Mickey Mantle Novel. The book, originally set to be released by HarperCollins's Regan Books imprint, was canceled in the face of controversy over Golenbock's decision to include undocumented, salacious episodes featuring Mantle and many legendary figures in his "fictional memoir." Lyons will be publish 7 this spring and has announced a 250,000-copy first printing.
