Oct 28, 2020
Professional Development for Creative Library Publishers
Many opportunities for professional development exist for library publishers and other small publishers. New editors can benefit from formal training, and established editors can learn how to expand their publication by joining professional organizations. All editors can follow literary sites and newsletters to stay abreast of industry news.
Training
A short webinar or self-paced course can helo you master specific aspects of editing and publishing. If you desire a more intensive education, you can earn a certificate or graduate degree in editing or publishing.
ACES: The Society for Editing offers a self-paced training program as well as webinars for $150 and $30 respectively. Discounts are available for ACES members, and membership is $75 per year.
Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) hosts an annual two-day conference on publishing for small presses and self-published authors. Early registration for non-members is $420.75 and limited scholarships are available, especially if you are a member of one of IBPA’s regional affiliate groups.
Lynda.com has various courses on publishing tools including InDesign and iBooks. If your library does not have a subscription to Lynda.com, you can sign-up for $30 per month including a one-month free trial period.
Publishing guru Jane Friedman teaches short classes on publishing that are geared towards writers but can benefit small library publishers. Prices vary, and you may already have Friedman’s The Great Courses: How to Publish Your Book at your library.
Professional Organizations
Joining a professional organization can help you network with other publishers, get professional feedback on your publication, and enjoy vendor discounts. In addition to the national organizations below, you can join a state or regional association.
Community of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP) is the go-to organization for literary magazines, small presses, and zine publishers. Memberships start at $125 a year, however they offer $50 memberships to zine and chapbook publishers as well soon-to-be publishers who are still planning for their first title. Members can receive virtual consultations and an annual check-up to help fine-tune their publishing strategy.
Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) is a great organization for small presses and self-publishers. Membership is $139 per year and $109 for soon-to-be publishers. IBPA membership offers industry discounts and opportunities for promotion to bookstores.
Library Publishing Coalition (LPC) is only to academic and research libraries that engage in scholarly publishing. Membership costs $2,000 per year. Academic presses can also consider joining Association of Writers and Writing Programs and Association of American University Presses.
Literary News
Learn about new publishing trends by reading newsletters and following literary sites:
Daily News from Poets & Writers
Want to learn more about creative library publishing? Email Stephanie Katz at literarylibraries@gmail.com.
