08/05/2015
The sad sad news of the UA Press has become a mainstay in our news feeds for a few weeks now, and as two Akron writers who spent time interning and supporting the press in various ways over the years, Mike & I are devastated. Not only has this press given the world excellent, excellent poetry, but it is also a necessary and important resource for Akron history, etc. It has provided a place for students to wet their feet in publishing, to work alongside great editors, great artists, like Mary Biddinger and Amy Freels.
While we don't have the power to release the press from its current (agonizing) limbo, we can sure show our support in other ways. There is a page to join called Save the University of Akron Press, where they post updates on the movement--petitions to sign, progress, rallies, etc. Many have personally sent letters to President Scarborough and the Board of Trustees. And, of course, you can buy books. Lots of books.
Follow the link below. Even if you've never heard of the press, follow the link and learn about it. And then support it other small presses. And support writers. And art. See where these things exist in your community and how you can, in any way, save them from facing the fate the UA Press is currently up against. We take for granted that great institutions like these will always exist. Make sure they know how much you love them. How vital they are to your community, your university, and to you.
(UA PRESS, YOU ROCK!)
The operations of University Press are being transferred to the Division of Libraries, where the director will work with the interim dean of Libraries and the Provost to assess UA Press operations and to recommend priorities going forward.
