Talk of the Town: 5 Things that Happened in the Publishing Industry in May 2020

Countries and states are cautiously beginning to reopen in May 2020 as businesses gear up for ways to regenerate sales.

That’s why Anthem Press has curated 5 note-worthy articles that contribute to a glimpse of the current state and future trajectory of the publishing industry. Whether data, news or commentary, we aim to keep you informed.

1. A new font that reflects these uncertain times

Third Street has come up with a new typeface that addresses the wave of uncertainty that the pandemic has unleashed, even featuring extra spacing for social distancing.

Full story here

2. Modified plans announced for Frankfurter Buchmesse 2020, held from October 14-18.

In the wake of the cancellations of the Bologna Children’s Book Fair and London Book Fair, the Frankfurt book fair’s president CEO, Juergen Boos announced that “There’s an urgent need, actually, to do business again, to talk to each other, to build up some creative attitude, as well.” The “Frankfurt Special Edition” will feature digital offerings powered by IPR license and public participation reconfigured for safety.

Full story here

3. How recent graduates can prepare for the academic job market in an economic recession.

Amid hiring freezes, how can recent grads navigate the tight job market? Professor Kimberly Hoang advises PhD students to recalibrate priorities, understand what research is needed during a crisis, and enter the market with open eyes.

Full story here

4. The academic digital revolution is here…again.

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for digital transformation. More than just the quality of content that matters, publishers must keep in mind speed and access, customer and content data as well. Publishers must adapt to data and new technologies to build products that deliver value to users.

Full story here

5. After the pandemic, libraries must undergo radical change.

The president of the New York Public Library, Anthony Marx, remarks that their investments in digital offerings have allowed for online storytimes, tutoring, virtual book clubs, author talks, book discussion podcasts, virtual consultations, at-home access to research databases, and free e-book collections during lockdown. Online libraries may be the libraries of the future, but how can libraries bridge the gap of the digital divide?

Full story here