Brian O’Leary Honored by the Book Manufacturers’ Institute for Industry Leadership
At the Book Manufacturers’ Institute (BMI) Fall Annual Conference, held November 3rd in St. Augustine, Florida, Brian O’Leary, Executive Director of the Book Industry Study Group (BISG), was recognized for his decades of leadership and service to the publishing and manufacturing communities. Brian was named to BMI’s prestigious Cased-In Club, an honor reserved for professionals who have served the book industry for more than 20-years with distinction.
A Career Built on Collaboration Across the Supply Chain
Under Brian’s leadership, BISG has been at the forefront of advancing standards, best practices, and collaboration across every part of the publishing supply chain—from publishers and distributors to printers and paper suppliers. His work has helped unify an industry that continues to adapt to new formats, technologies, and market pressures while maintaining a commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Reflecting on the recognition, O’Leary said, “BISG’s partnership with BMI started five decades ago, and it has been a privilege to continue that relationship. Even as the range of formats has grown, book manufacturing remains a core part of our supply chain. To be recognized for work in support of printers and paper suppliers is an honor that reflects how important it is to maintain those relationships.”
Celebrating Enduring Ties Between BISG and BMI
BISG and BMI share a long history of collaboration focused on strengthening the book ecosystem. From standardizing metadata and improving production workflows to addressing sustainability and supply chain resilience, the two organizations have often worked side by side to ensure the continued success of print and digital publishing alike. This year, BISG was proud to serve as the Gala Reception sponsor for the BMI Annual Meeting, reaffirming its commitment to BMI’s mission.
“This exceptional group of recipients has left an indelible mark on book manufacturing,” said Matt Baehr, BMI’s Executive Director. “Brian’s inclusion among this year’s honorees highlights BISG’s central role in shaping the book industry’s future.”
Recognizing the Importance of Print in a Changing World
As digital platforms evolve, BISG’s work under Brian's leadership continues to underscore the enduring importance of printed books—not only as cultural artifacts but as a cornerstone of the publishing economy. His recognition by BMI serves as a reminder that innovation and tradition can coexist, each reinforcing the other to keep the industry strong.
At a time when supply chain challenges, sustainability concerns, and evolving reading habits are reshaping the publishing landscape, Brian's recognition from BMI is both a personal milestone and a testament to BISG’s continued impact.
The evening also celebrated other distinguished leaders, including James (Jim) Wisotzkey of Maple Press, recipient of the Distinguished Master Bookman Award, and Bruce Jacobsen of Bridgeport National Bindery, who received the Signature Award, underscoring the depth of talent and dedication that define the book manufacturing community. Art Crawley of Kolbus and Nick Lewis of Publisher’s Graphics were also inducted as new members to the Cased-In Club.