Basic Manual Series Editor Annual Report 2022

submitted by Melanie Zeck

Current Roster

  • Sandi-Jo Malmon, Basic Manual Series Editorial Board (term ends 2023?)
  • Carla Williams, Basic Manual Series Editorial Board (term ends 2023?)

List of Previous Goals and Progress Made

  1. Meet our desire to publish a book in the series each year.
    • Evaluating the current proposal pipeline and reconsidering the feasibility of annual releases, based on the quality and relevance of the proposals submitted.
  2. Continue soliciting for new volumes and helping authors achieve their publishing goals.
    • Coordinating manuscript solicitation efforts with Jim Zychowicz by reviewing proposals and presentations at various related conferences.
    • Coordinating author support efforts with other series editors–to include presentations at Town Hall and national meeting.
  3. Assist in securing a new BMS Editor and Editorial Board.
    • New editor has recently confirmed ongoing participation of two editorial committee members; New editor has met with previous series editor and co-publisher, received relevant files.
    • Working with Jim Zychowicz to redefine the work of the editorial board.
  4. Help with their onboarding where appropriate.
    • Onboarding has been completed.

List of Future Goals

  1. Usher Music Collection Development and Management in the Digital Age by Kirstin Johnson through publication process.
  2. Facilitate the single-author efforts of Laura Thompson to complete Reframing Twenty-First Century Music Libraries: Reflections and Imaginings, following death of co-author, Grace Haynes.
  3. In support of Objective 3.7, we will continue previous editor’s efforts in cultivating manuscripts on the newly developed topic area “Belonging in Music Libraries” by reconsidering focus, aims, and relevance.
    • Objective 3.7: “Offer targeted conference programming, pathways to involvement, and enhanced outreach efforts to members of underrepresented groups including people of color, public library employees, and support staff. Draw on MLA chapter expertise to encourage involvement in national participation.”
  4. In support of Objectives 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3, we are investigating best practices in offering tailored support to authors at every step of the writing process—from crafting the proposal to reviewing and incorporating edits.
    • Objective 2.1: Cultivate leaders and provide leadership training opportunities
    • Objective 2.2: Offer mentorship and networking opportunities for members
    •  Objective 2.3: Explore educational and networking opportunities
  5. Defining the Basic Manual Series toward 2025: BMS at the Quarter Century.