Academic Publishing: University Presses, the Spaces they Currently Hold and the Outlook For the Future

University presses have long stood at the intersection of scholarship, publishing innovation, and cultural dissemination. In an era of rapid digital transformation, open access mandates, and shifting research evaluation frameworks, the roles and relevance of university presses are being redefined. This session highlights the unique spaces they hold in today’s publishing landscape, from advancing scholarship to shaping cultural dialogue and explores how they are adapting to new challenges and opportunities including sustainability, technological innovation, evolving partnerships with libraries and funders, and the balance between commercial pressures and academic missions.