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Final Program


Onsite Program
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Lightning Talk: Program Description Abstract

Information Management

In Person

On Demand

Session: Lightning Talk Session 1

The MLA Style Guide: Looking back to move forward

Wednesday, May 17, 2023
10:30 AM - 10:35 AM EDT
Location: 251B
Background: The MLA Style Guide is considered the primary resource for publishing guidelines for MLA print and electronic material. The goal of this revision is to better reflect currency, sensitivity, publication styles, authors' voice, and be more accessible to users.
Following discussions with the JMLA Editorial Board in late 2020, it was suggested that a group be created to evaluate how the guide (then called "manual") could be updated for the modern era. The last revision was in 2019.

Description: In January 2021, the MLA Style Guide Work Group convened with members from the JMLA Editorial Board and the MLA publications teams. A survey was created and administered to those involved with JMLA including editors, peer-reviewers, and all publishing arms of MLA. The Work Group sought data on awareness of the guide, barriers to usage, and suggestions for improvement.
The Work Group met virtually twice a month, evaluating each section of the existing guide, and making recommendations for revisions. The JMLA Equity Work Group was consulted to ensure that the guide was representative of current language and DEI practices.

Conclusion: Survey results revealed accessibility and currency issues, a knowledge gap in the existence of the guide, and a need for respect and sensitivity in language. When completed, the revised guide will become a dynamic and interactive resource accessible through MLANET and reviewed on a regular basis to ensure currency.