BISG Announces New Membership Options for Agents and Students, Alongside Updated Dues Structure

As BISG continues its work to strengthen collaboration, improve industry standards, and support the wide range of professionals who make up the book publishing supply chain, we are excited to share several important updates to our membership structure for 2026. These changes—which include new membership categories and a modest adjustment to overall dues—reflect BISG’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and long-term sustainability.

Introducing a New Membership Category for Agents

To better serve the literary agent community—and in alignment with the board’s priority to broaden representation—BISG has formally introduced a new membership category: Level A2 – Agent Member (annual dues: $180). Agent members receive full access to all individual-level benefits, including committee participation, discounted programming, and member-only resources.

New Student Membership Category

BISG is  excited to introduce a membership level that helps develop and support the next generation of publishing professionals: Level A3 – Student Member (annual dues: $120, with proof of enrollment).

This new Student category will:

• Introduce emerging professionals to publishing standards, best practices, and industry challenges
• Provide early opportunities for participation in BISG committees and hands-on engagement
• Support diversity within the future workforce
• Strengthen BISG’s relationships with academic programs in publishing, printing, supply chain, and related fields
• Expand access to professional development and networking opportunities

Student members receive full access to all individual-level benefits, creating a direct pathway for learning, mentorship, and long-term engagement with BISG.

Revised and Renamed Individual Membership Option

To further support inclusivity—particularly for self-employed publishing professionals—BISG has lowered the cost of individual membership and renamed the category to better reflect its purpose: Level A1 – Individual Proprietor (annual dues: $360). A recent reduction in the annual fee ensures that consultants, freelancers, sole proprietors, and other independent professionals can participate fully in BISG’s work. At one-third of the minimum commercial rate, this level provides a more equitable entry point for individuals who play a vital role in our industry but operate outside traditional organizational structures.

A Modest Dues Adjustment

To support BISG’s growing programming, committee work, and member services—and after careful evaluation—BISG’s Board of Directors has implemented an average dues increase of 3% across its commercial and nonprofit membership categories.

Dues have not increased since 2022, and this change represents only the second adjustment in the last decade. The modest update ensures BISG can continue delivering high-value education, standards development, and member support while remaining accessible and inclusive.

Why BISG Membership Matters

BISG members help shape the future of the book publishing industry through active leadership, professional development, and community engagement.

Membership offers a seat at the table in committees that develop and refine key industry standards, along with opportunities to influence best practices and gain early access to new research.

Members also benefit from free or discounted programs, workshops, and webinars; specialized training in ONIX, Thema, and other essential topics; and a robust library of guides and tools through our Knowledge Center.

In addition, BISG provides a broad, cross-industry network, visibility through speaking and leadership opportunities, and access to exclusive member-only programming. Further value includes the annual BISAC Subject Codes download, access to health insurance solutions through Arthur J. Gallagher  (formerly LIG Solutions,) and support for initiatives that advance accessibility, sustainability, and innovation across publishing.

Looking Ahead

These updates represent an important step forward as BISG continues to expand its reach, enhance its impact, and welcome new voices into our community. We look forward to welcoming agents, students, individual proprietors, and commercial and nonprofit organizations to BISG as we continue shaping the future of publishing together.

Click here to learn more about BISG membership or contact us at info@bisg.org.

Unlike other organizations that focus on specific segments or groups, BISG's focus on the complete supply chain makes it the perfect place to build relationships across the entire publishing industry. That breadth of industry input also allows the conversations in committees to be more robust, and the resulting discussions, recommendations, and best practices are able to address a broader range of needs at the same time.

Joshua Tallent, Director of Sales and Education, Firebrand Technologies
Immediate Past Chair, BISG Board of Directors, and member of the Workflow Committee