WTAW Press is a traditional, distributed independent press that acquires literary titles through an anonymous open submission process. In seeking to elevate and publish traditionally underrepresented authors, WTAW provides several opportunities to submit manuscripts for publication during open reading periods. We welcome submissions from writers of all backgrounds, including from new, emerging, and established voices. To stay current with our open reading periods and other news, sign up for our newsletter. Links to submit manuscripts are live only during open reading periods.
For each opportunity, be sure to review and follow the guidelines carefully. Anonymity is mandatory. There can be no identifying information on the manuscript, including the file name, headers, and title page. Manuscripts containing identifying information will be automatically disqualified and any feed forfeited.
The annual Kevin McIlvoy Book Prize is for a full-length book of prose (novel, memoir, creative nonfiction, collection of stories or essays, hybrid forms, etc.) The winner will receive $2500, book publication with a standard publishing contract that pays royalties, and 25 copies of their book. All submissions will be considered for publication.
WTAW offers the Alcove Chapbook Series Competition. The winner will receive book publication, a $250 honorarium, and 25 copies of their book. All submissions will be considered for publication.
WTAW Press's imprint Betty accepts submissions by authors who identify as women, including trans women, nonbinary and intersex authors, and authors whose gender is fluid or nonconforming. Betty has its own newsletter; sign up to keep current with open submission periods and more. You can find the imprint on social media platforms @thebettybooks.
Learn more about these opportunities and more at our website.
Thank you for considering WTAW Press and Betty. We look forward to reading your work.
Join the WTAW Press Team
Before applying, please familiarize yourself with WTAW Press, including our Alcove Chapbook Series and our imprint Betty, via our website and social media platforms.
Our staff positions offer an immersive opportunity for those looking to engage deeply with the literary world—including students, recent graduates, aspiring writers, or career changers. Successful candidates work closely with our Director to gain firsthand knowledge of the rewarding, fast-paced world of small-press nonprofit publishing.
What We Look For
We value candidates who are:
- Ambitious & Curious: Eager to lean into new opportunities and embrace challenges.
- Communicative: Possessing excellent writing and organizational skills.
- Collaborative: Able to work well independently and as part of a mission-driven team.
- Reliable: Capable of juggling various deadlines with a proactive, positive attitude.
Open Positions
SOCIAL MEDIA ASSISTANT
The Social Media Assistant maintains and updates the press's social media channels and builds community engagement.
- Responsibilities: Maintain the social media calendar; create and curate graphics/videos; and implement best practices to engage readers.
- Ideal Candidate: Enthusiastic about literary content-creation with experience in social media management (specifically for nonprofits or arts organizations). Proficiency in Canva or similar design tools is required.
COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT (NEWSLETTER)
The Communications Assistant is responsible for assisting with the strategy, assembly, and distribution of newsletters, ensuring our subscribers stay connected to our authors, imprints, and events.
- Responsibilities: Plan and manage the newsletter calendar; draft engaging copy; create graphics; manage subscriber lists; and monitor performance metrics.
- Ideal Candidate: An excellent writer who knows how to write a compelling subject line. Highly organized and comfortable working within email marketing platforms. Meticulous about proofreading and link-checking. Proficiency in Canva or similar design tools.
PUBLISHING ASSISTANT
Reporting to the Director, the Publishing Assistant assists with projects across all areas of operation, including editorial, production, marketing, and development.
- Responsibilities: Assist in designing marketing materials; help prepare work for publication; support event planning and fundraising; and conduct relevant research.
Ideal Candidate: Someone with a passion for contemporary literature and a desire to learn the "nuts and bolts" of independent publishing and nonprofit operations.
Eligibility & Compensation
- Commitment: All positions are part-time and remote.
- Compensation: While these are not salaried staff positions, those who complete the minimum contractual period will receive a modest financial stipend.
- Academic Credit: For interns eligible to receive school credit, WTAW is happy to provide the necessary documentation and requirements.
- Inclusion: We strongly encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
How to Apply
We consider applications on a rolling basis. Please be prepared to provide:
- A brief introduction (Cover Letter) explaining why you are applying and how your qualifications align with WTAW’s mission.
- A current resume outlining your relevant experience.
If you're so inclined to support the activities of WTAW Press, we gratefully accept.
Please note: this is not an opportunity to submit a manuscript.
Manuscripts are only accepted during our open reading periods and through the direct categories reserved for submissions. If you don't see any categories for submitting a manuscript, try another time. You can keep up with our open submission periods on our website and by signing up for our newsletter.
Thank you for your support!