How to monetize reams of information

Who actually owns the articles/information that is on site? Original authors or you?

It sounds like you've ruled out most of the the things that would make you actual money. Despite what you read on this board generating $3K a month off of a web site is a major feat. Unless you are a known media outlet that's already a brand-name destination, the chance of generating that much with "reams" of information and Amazon affiliate links is low.

I'd look at what problem you are solving for people and will they pay for that solution? People pay for solutions to their problems (which is why a lot of this questionable get-rich-quick baloney sells well online), not for "information". Find a way to contextualize what you've got around a problem set... Then test.

Be open to creating profits that solve their problems-- or if the information itself does (and is highly valuable and unique) consider a paywall.

I will say again, that this is not easy to do, but is doable. Think of yourself as a speciality publisher within your niche, learn more about the problems people are experiencing and sell solutions.

Good luck.

Sounds like a review blog, although specialized.

Of course if the books are sold on Amazon, you could place Amazon affiliate links for not only the books but also for products that appeal to the audience you expect to visit your site. If your site is highly specialized, I doubt if you'll find affiliate products or services on Commission Junction or Linkshare.

You should use Google AdSense since they have such a wide range of advertisers, some of which might appeal to your audience. Do a Google search using some of the key phrases that your intended visitors might use to get to your site and see if Google offers up related ads over on the right side of the search results page. Those could be the ads that appear on your pages for which you will be paid, if clicked.

Your goal of $3000 a month is certainly not unreasonable, but it won't happen immediately. It'll start VERY slowly and grow over time, assuming you keep work and adding content and working to drive traffic. Most people would see the slow start as a sign that their goal is not possible. Don't be one of those people. My site started making $5 a day. Now, it makes 100 times that amount, and things are a bit slow right now.

AdSense is the best but you have to place it inline with the content.

Check out this heat map of the most clicked areas:

http://cdn.techgyd.com/Best-AdSense-...e-Heat-map.jpg

If you just stick a banner ad in the header you could make next to nothing.