Libraries Publish: How to Start a Magazine, Small Press, Blog, and More

In this book, author Stephanie Katz, founding editor of the award-winning literary journal 805 Lit + Art, shares practical tools and advice for starting successful creative publishing projects.

Publishing benefits libraries by providing high-quality content to patrons, showcasing local writers and faculty, and creating buzz for the library. These endeavors can be launched at any type and size of library, often for little to no cost. Libraries Publish teaches libraries how to publish literary magazines, book review blogs, local anthologies, picture books, library professional journals, and even novels. You’ll learn how to run a writing contest or writer-in-residence program, form community partnerships with other literary organizations, find funding, navigate legal considerations, market your publication, and more.

Each chapter contains detailed information on how to start your project, including comprehensive checklists, recommendations for free software, and legal considerations. Social media strategies as well as tips for facilitating student or teen-run projects are also covered. If your library wants to start a publishing project, this book will be your go-to resource!

Shows how each project fits into the mission of a library

Offers legal information including publishing rights and author publishing agreements

Reviews free and subscription software for websites, submissions management, layout, and communication with subscribers

Contains marketing and social media strategies for promoting a publication locally and nationally

Suggests ways to engage the community and build local partnerships