How to Propose Your Book

If you have ideas about improving library services and a desire to share your expertise, you might just have a book in you. ALA Neal-Schuman's editorial and publishing support will bring out your best. Contact the Publisher or an Editor (see Staff).

Query

A  query will  briefly describe your topic, why it’s needed, and a bit about yourself. We’ll need to know enough about your project, why it’s distinctive, and how it fits our list and customer needs. Send queries by email and include your topic in the subject line. If we like it, we’ll request a full proposal.
 

Proposal

Proposals include a topic outline, a description of audience, and analysis of competing or comparable books that will serve to position your project in the marketplace, along with schedule, proposed length, and perhaps a writing sample. Click here for full proposal guidelines.
 

Diversity Statement

The editors of ALA Neal-Schuman urge authors preparing proposals or manuscripts to make diversity a force in their publications. No longer is diversity a concern only for a handful of urban libraries in gateway cities. Throughout the country, our communities are changing, and diversity is integral to library service and professionalism. Quality professional publications have always pointed the way to innovative service. How does diversity touch your topic?
 

For Authors with Works in Progress

Visit the Author Guidelines page for direction in preparing your manuscript and helping us market your book.