The University of Missouri is trying to mend fences with authors, while restoring the reputation and funding of its academic press.
The university announced plans in June to close the press, prompting outrage in the academic community. Some authors demanded their publishing rights returned. That decision was reversed Tuesday, when university officials said the press would continue to produce books and digital publications.
University officials plan to shift control of the press from the four-campus university system to the Columbia campus. Former Missouri chancellor Richard Wallace is leading a team that will guide the transition. He says one of the top priorities will be working to persuade authors to stay with the press. The Columbia Daily Tribune reports financing is another concern, and financial support is being worked out.
