Publishing

In basic terms, please describe your project.

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way many industries approach sales and marketing. In book publishing, new and returning authors had to find new ways to connect with readers and find new audiences. Despite the broken supply chain and bookstores closed for signings or readings, the publishing industry soared. I looked at six books released from 2020 to 2022 and created timelines of each author and publishers’ events and methods of reaching consumers online. These case studies revealed how virtual events kept readers engaged and allowed authors to reach audiences larger and farther away than ever before. We worked to uncover how this shift will change the industry, and what in-person or online practices will stay or go in the future.

How did you become interested in this topic? What inspired you?

Across industries, the process of publishing and promotion is fascinating. Many people spend countless hours with months or years of planning to simply get a CD, book, or game on the shelves. The pandemic holds a guide to adaptation, and I wanted to be able to uncover this resource for future

Sara Bowles

Major: Music Business • Expected graduation: May 2025 Hometown: Warwick, RI

Project Title: Post-Pandemic Publishing: A COVID Case Study

Advisor: Kelly McMasters

authors to learn from. Behind-thescenes management and advocacy for writers, artists, speakers, and performers is a huge passion of mine. My mentor introduced me to how this industry really functioned and what part we may have in assisting its success.

What professor did you work with, and how did they support you?

I worked with Professor Kelly McMasters, MFA, of the English Department. As the head of creative writing, she was very supportive of my new ways to organize and understand this data through visual timelines. As my first-generation advisor, she spent many meetings reassuring me and providing amazing resources to an industry I had yet to uncover. She responded to my emails at any time of the day and guided me through new research techniques. This semester truly opened my eyes to how enriching and helpful it is to have the support of someone like Professor McMasters during my college career.

How long did you work on this research?

We began brainstorming in December 2021 and worked throughout the spring 2022 semester. It began with understanding the principles of the printed book industry and how it was affected by the pandemic. Then, I dove into research and developed six case studies before finalizing conclusions and presentations.

Where do you see this research going in the future?

Once I was able to complete the case studies, I created an online database that will be available for any author or reader. Our findings and conclusions are currently in the process of being published in a trade magazine, and we will continue to develop a guide to be presented at a publishing conference in the future. The success of the books I studied is ongoing, so I will continue to monitor and update the databases to assist publicists and authors on navigating the virtual world.

What career or educational plans do you have for after graduation?

After graduating from Hofstra with a BA in Music Business, I hope to attend law school and become an entertainment attorney. Creators deserve fair chances, compensation, and resources for them to thrive in the public domain that we have created. Understanding virtual workspaces and sharing ways for new and returning writers to adapt to constantly changing industries are more important than ever.