BISG@50: Book Publishing Next Forum & Anniversary Reception

BISG@50: Where Legacy Meets Momentum

Join us for two unforgettable events as the Book Industry Study Group marks its 50th anniversary—bringing together the people, ideas, and innovations that have shaped publishing for half a century.

Industry leaders, rising voices, and longtime collaborators will gather to celebrate BISG’s legacy while looking boldly toward the future. This milestone event is a moment to reconnect, reflect, and reimagine what’s next for the book publishing ecosystem.

Book Publishing Next Forum:

Insight, Inspiration, and Connection

1:00 PM–5:00 PM | Robert H. Smith Auditorium at The New York Historical

Attendees can expect an engaging program featuring remarks from some of publishing’s most recognizable and influential voices. They’ll share insights on where the industry has been—and where it must go next. Surrounded by peers from across the publishing landscape, you’ll have the chance to reconnect with colleagues, meet new collaborators, and be part of the conversations shaping the future of books.

Opening Keynote: “The Supply Chain Book Publishing Deserves”

Featuring Lora Cecere of Supply Chain Insights

The book industry has evolved dramatically over the past two decades—but its supply chain has not. While leading industries have embraced real-time data, predictive analytics, and market-driven decision-making, publishing continues to rely on processes designed for a far less dynamic marketplace.

Drawing on decades of research across manufacturing, retail, healthcare, consumer products, and technology, supply chain expert Lora Cecere will explore where publishing lags behind other industries, quantify the operational and financial opportunities created by supply chain modernization, and illustrate how organizations outside publishing have transformed forecasting, planning, collaboration, and responsiveness.

Lora’s keynote will examine the strategic shift required to build a more agile, transparent, and resilient supply chain—one capable of supporting the next generation of book publishing.

Responding to the Challenge: How Does Our Industry Move Ahead?

Lora Cecere will challenge the industry to rethink what’s possible. This response panel, featuring voices from BISG’s Committees and Working Groups, will explore what meaningful change looks like in practice.

Recognizing the People Who Make Progress Possible

This special segment will feature a remembrance of Wendell Lotz, one of the architects of the modern publishing supply chain; recognition for extraordinary volunteer leadership; BISG’s Industry Innovator Award; and BISG’s Industry Champion Award. Honorees to be announced!

“Why Supply Chain Is the New Black”

Publishing Executives on Building the Future of the Book Supply Chain

The future of the book publishing supply chain won’t be built by technology alone—it will require leadership, collaboration, and a shared commitment to change. In this executive conversation, senior leaders will discuss the industry’s most pressing supply chain challenges, the initiatives already underway within their own companies, and what they believe is needed to create a more agile, transparent, and resilient publishing ecosystem.

“The Urgency Engine”

BISG’s new Executive Director, Allison Belan, will outline her vision for BISG’s role in helping the industry build a more connected, data-driven, and collaborative future. Rather than simply responding to today’s challenges, she’ll challenge attendees to consider how BISG can convene the people, partnerships, and initiatives needed to turn today’s conversations into tomorrow’s progress.

50th Anniversary Reception

5:30 PM–8:00 PM | Robert H. and Clarice Smith New York Gallery
of American History at The New York Historical
Dress to celebrate—business or cocktail attire welcomed.

As the day transitions from ideas to celebration, join us for a festive, high-energy reception honoring 50 years of BISG! Attendees will enjoy an evening of delectable hors d’oeuvres and delicious drinks, dynamic conversation and meaningful connection, and ample opportunities to celebrate alongside peers from every corner of publishing.

The evening will include brief celebratory remarks recognizing BISG’s legacy, along with the kind of camaraderie and shared passion that define our community. Come ready to raise a glass, catch up, and celebrate in style—it’s going to be a truly memorable evening.