Barbara Epler started working at New Directions in 1984, and is now the president and publisher. She has worked on the books of writers such as Roberto Bolaño, César Aira, Muriel Spark, Joseph Roth, Robert Walser, Stevie Smith, John Keene, Yoko Tawada, and Clarice Lispector, and many others. Independent since 1936, New Directions is a for-profit literary press that brings out about 35 new books a year and maintains more than 1,300 titles on its backlist.
“The CUNY Publishing Institute is an amazing opportunity for those who are serious about making a difference in publishing to learn from some of the most innovative, savvy, and engaging entrepreneurs in the business. Plus, you’ll make valuable connections that pay dividends for a long, long time.” – Ross Ufberg, cofounder, New Vessel Press
“John Oakes corrals the best and brightest from the New York publishing scene to provide a terrific crash course in book business basics. I learned a tremendous amount in just one week.” – Michael Z. Wise, cofounder, New Vessel Press.
“I was steeped in grim predictions about the future of publishing and journalism, and the CUNY Publishing Institute — with its remarkable assortment of speakers, and John Oakes’ infectious enthusiasm — lifted me out of that despair. The Institute offers a different take on the future, and restores your faith in this valuable work and the people who are doing it.” – Joyce Hinnefeld, author of In Hovering Flight and Stranger Here Below.
“A great experience: the world of publishing in a nutshell.”
– Alexander M. Dake, Publisher, Cosimo Books.