Call for proposals: (Max 500 words)
Deadline: Monday October 30, 2025 12:00 PM ET
Beyond the Stacks: Leveraging Librarian and Archivist Skills in New Ways will be published by ALA Editions | ALA Neal-Schuman.
Beyond the Stacks positions itself as a timely book in uncertain times in which librarians and archivists are looking for ideas and opportunities that are realistic and feasible as they brace for the possibility of unexpected changes in their workplace and/or income.
Librarians and archivists possess a wealth of skills that are highly transferable beyond traditional library and archives settings. From research and organization to information management and community engagement, these skills can be leveraged in a variety of paid and unpaid roles across multiple industries. Beyond the Stacks will explore how librarians and archivists can apply their expertise in new and creative ways, whether transitioning to new careers, starting independent projects, or contributing to community initiatives.
This book is intended to offer advice, tips, and ideas for information professionals who are seeking to explore alternative career paths as well as those who want to supplement their income and/or to exercise their creative muscles to combat burnout.
Contributions in all formats are welcomed including visuals and interviews.
Proposal Submission and Timeline:
Submit proposals via Google Form at https://forms.gle/CKxyirxuHPAuPK399
Proposals Due: October 30, 2025
Notification by editor of proposal acceptance: mid-December
Authors submit completed chapters: mid-May
Anticipated publication is 2027
Additional key dates will be sent to successful proposal writers
Sample topics include but are not limited to:
Research and Information Management in Non-Traditional Settings
○ Corporate research, data analysis and digital curation
○ Fact-checking and investigative research for media and journalism
Community Engagement and Advocacy
○ Public history and cultural heritage projects
○ Organizing and running literacy programs outside the library
Freelancing and Independent Consulting
○ Research consulting and information brokerage
○ Grant writing and fundraising for organizations
Entrepreneurial Paths for LIS Professionals
○ Launching an archival or research consulting business
○ Developing educational content and training programs
Volunteering and Unpaid Opportunities with Impact
○ Supporting community archives and grassroots history projects
○ Assisting advocacy groups with research and documentation
Making the Transition: Practical Steps and Resources
○ Identifying transferable skills
○ Resources for job searching, career development, and continuing education
Please email questions to the editor:
Jina DuVernay | jduvernay@gwinnettpl.org
About the Editor:
Jina DuVernay is a librarian and an arts and culture consultant who has been actively involved with numerous committees and initiatives such as Councilor-at-Large for the American Library Association (ALA) and as an executive board member for the Black Caucus of ALA. She received a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Alabama and is currently pursuing a PhD in Humanities at Clark Atlanta University. Presently, DuVernay is the Adult Services Manager for Gwinnett County Public Library. Beyond her role in librarianship, DuVernay is a freelance writer and editor, and an English adjunct instructor.
Jina DuVernay
Adult Services Manager
Gwinnett County Public Library
jduvernay@gwinnettpl.org