The publishing industry is on edge as the ReaderLink–Baker & Taylor (B&T) acquisition nears completion. With the official closing expected on September 26, 2025, many independent publishers are voicing concerns about what the final terms could mean for their businesses.
Earlier this month, ReaderLink, the nation’s largest book distributor to mass merchandisers and non-bookstore outlets, announced its plan to acquire Baker & Taylor, the country’s leading distributor to libraries. While the move seems like a natural fit on paper, the fine print has raised some red flags.
The Worry Over Unpaid Bills
ReaderLink CEO Dennis Abboud confirmed in a letter to partners that the deal involves buying only B&T’s assets. That means B&T’s existing debts and payables will remain with its current owners, not transfer to ReaderLink.
For publishers who are already waiting on overdue payments from B&T, this is unsettling news. One indie publisher admitted, “It is concerning that accounts payable will remain with the current owners. We don’t know if or when we’ll actually get paid.”
Some companies are even considering a class action lawsuit to delay the deal until they receive more clarity about outstanding invoices. Whether that legal challenge will move forward is still uncertain.
How Publishers Can Submit Claims
Abboud’s letter noted that publishers can send details about unpaid invoices to APClaims@baker-taylor.com, but the claims process will not begin until after the sale closes. For now, many publishers feel stuck in limbo.
Industry insiders point out that while it’s unusual for an acquisition to include only assets without liabilities, it isn’t unheard of. What this does signal, however, is that B&T may have been desperate to find a buyer, leaving creditors—including publishers, distributors, and shipping partners—without much say in how payments are handled.
Silver Linings in a Risky Deal
Despite the financial uncertainty, there are positives. The acquisition ensures that Baker & Taylor will continue operating, backed by ReaderLink’s resources. Current B&T CEO Aman Kochar assured customers that the partnership will strengthen distribution capacity.
ReaderLink brings over $250 million in inventory spread across six distribution centers, which will bolster B&T’s existing operations. Most employees will remain in their current positions, and Kochar will continue to lead the company.
“By partnering with ReaderLink, your Baker & Taylor team will continue to deliver the service, inventory, and solutions you expect,” Kochar wrote in his customer letter.
Some publishers, while nervous about payments, acknowledged the potential upside. One commented, “With ReaderLink’s support, B&T could finally build its distribution services into something meaningful. It’s a surprise, and emotions are mixed, but the stability is welcome.”
A Defining Moment for the Industry
As the deal heads toward closing, publishers, authors, and distributors alike are bracing for impact. The merger could bring much-needed stability to B&T, but it also leaves significant questions unanswered about how small publishers will be compensated for past sales.
For now, the publishing community is watching closely. As one source summed it up: “This could be a wild ride. No one wants to get stiffed.”