Sensitivity readers have been utilized by authors, editors, and publishers for some time, but have gained the attention of the press in recent years. Seen by some as polarizing, a sensitivity reader is asked to identify parts of a written text that may be perceived as inappropriate or harmful to some readers, particularly those identifying with underrepresented populations. While this practice is more commonly associated with fiction writing, scholarly publishers are beginning to incorporate the practice. Members of the Books@Atla Open Press editorial board will reflect on their experiences with feedback from a sensitivity reader and how they are incorporating this practice into their editorial workflow.
Learning Outcome
Attendees will learn about sensitivity reading, what it is and how it is done. They will also learn about how sensitivity reading is applied to writing on librarianship, theology, and religious studies. We also seek to educate attendees on the Books@Atla Open Press editorial workflow in a more detailed setting that will not be possible in the joint Atla Open Press editor-in-chief panel.
Audience Engagement
While this will be a presentation of information, we hope to facilitate discussion among attendees about the merits of sensitivity reading and how this practice may be further tailored for our scholarly field of theological and religious studies librarianship. We are very interested in listening and receiving feedback from attendees about what is important to them about sensitivity reading.
