It’s normal for films and TV to display warnings and ratings, and even in the publishing industry we sort material into age-appropriate categories based on content and language. Now the discussion is underway about advancing this one step further to include specific content warnings—also called trigger warnings—as we contemplate accessibility and how we can incorporate mental health practices into our work. But what is a content warning exactly, and how does it apply to book publishing? When is it appropriate, and when is it redundant? Is it only the finished, printed book that needs to be properly tagged, or is it important for authors querying out to agents and publishers as well?
accessibility
The Magic of Portland’s Independent Publishing Resource Center
By Erica Wright
For authors and artists who don’t have access to publishing technology or spaces to create, print, and publish their work, there are distinct barriers to doing what they love. However, there is an incredible nonprofit organization right here in Portland that seeks to break down these barriers and make publishing affordable and accessible to all.
Accessibility in Fonts: An Overview
By Morgan Ramsey
What do we mean when we talk about accessibility in fonts? Font consideration for print and web design is a crucial step in the design process. Some fonts are more legible than others, and that is especially true for people who have visual, print, or learning disabilities.
The Next Page: How Kickstarter Bridged the Gap of Publishing Conferences
By Desiree Wilson @swindlesoiree
Access to publishing conferences can be difficult, even when you snag an invitation to the often exclusive events, but in May 2019 Kickstarter changed the game with their two-part digital conference, The Next Page.
Publishers Are Making Room for Smart Speakers
By Alix Martinez
Smart speakers are becoming a staple in the average household and changing the way we interact with technology. Publishing companies are taking note and looking at their use of the digital space in order to attract a more tech-savvy crowd. The industry is no stranger to surviving a digital upset, but the question is how they will respond to it. Looking closer, we can already see what challenges publishers face and the innovative ideas they have brought to the table in response.
Writing Alt Text for Ebooks
By Megan Crayne @megancrayne
Alternative text, or alt text, is different from including a caption for an image in your book; it is a clear description of what is taking place in the image so that readers who use voice-to-text software can understand its context. Used commonly on websites, alt text can be easily built into your InDesign document for all of your images before you convert your book into an EPUB—and here is how to write it.