12 How to Use the Templates
Template Files
There are two types of files:
- Visual Guide (PDF)
- InDesign Template
Visual Guide
The Visual Guide will help you see the elements of the book cover so you can copy their styles, size and placement. If you do not own or have access to Adobe InDesign, then you may use another program that you are comfortable with.
Please note: Whichever program you use, you will need to export your cover to a JPEG image file to upload into Pressbooks to make the cover. Microsoft Word does not export to a high enough resolution to be usable.
InDesign Template
InDesign is a layout program created by Adobe. If you own the program or have access to it, you can download the template and edit it with your book’s information. You can also modify the template to personalize your book by changing the fonts and colours used. If you have selected the photo or graphic template then you can modify those elements as well to suit your book. If you are not an InDesign user, but have hired a designer to create your book cover, you may pass the template onto them to modify.
Book cover styles
There are three book cover styles to choose from:
- Simple: colour cover and text
- Graphic: pattern background and text
- Photo: image and/or pattern background and text
Each book cover template has a screen or print version. The print version includes a spine and back cover. This is not required for screen viewing.
Book cover final files
When exporting your finished cover choose:
- PDF for print files
- JPEG for screen files
Resources
If you decide to use the Graphic or Photo cover template, you can find a list of openly-licensed and public domain graphics (vectors) and image [New Tab] in the BCcampus Open Education Self-Publishing Guide.
Images
When choosing an image for your work, you need to decide if you will be using it for print or for screen. Images for print require a larger resolution than images for screen.
See the Textbook Cover chapter [New Tab] in the Self-Publishing Guide for detailed information on choosing an image.
Attribution statement
Attribution may be required if you are:
- Adapting an open textbook
- Required to give credit for the graphic or image you are using
- Include the CC BY licence in your attribution statement
For more information on best practices for composing an attribution statements, see Attributions [New Tab] in the Self-Publishing Guide.
Licensing
Visit Creative Commons [New Tab] to learn about the various licensing types. Creative Commons licences may be attached to content you wish to use or you may want to choose a licence for your own work.
