We are pleased to announce the appointment of Lettie Y. Conrad, PhD, Product Experience Architect at LibLynx and part-time instructor with the SJSU School of Information, as the new Deputy Editor of The Scholarly Kitchen (TSK). In this volunteer leadership role, Lettie will work closely with TSK’s editor-in-chief to help guide editorial strategy, support TSK contributors, and maintain the high editorial standards of SSP’s flagship blog.
As Deputy Editor, Lettie will assist with managing contributors and guest submissions, reviewing content for clarity and consistency, and ensuring timely publication of posts. This role was created to provide editorial continuity and additional leadership for The Scholarly Kitchen as the site continues to expand its reach and deepen engagement with the scholarly communications community.
Lettie brings a wealth of experience in scholarly publishing, with a strong background in human-centered design and product development. In her current role, she is developing innovative experiences for publishers and libraries using LibLynx’s identity, access, and analytics solutions. She also shares her expertise as an information science instructor for San José State University’s iSchool. Lettie has been an active Chef in the Kitchen for several years and served two 3-year terms as North American Editor for Learned Publishing. She is also co-chair of SSP’s New Directions Seminar and sits on the Publications Committee for the Association for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T), further demonstrating her commitment to fostering collaboration and elevating diverse perspectives within the field.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Lettie to The Scholarly Kitchen editorial team,” said David Crotty, TSK Editor-in-Chief. “Her deep editorial expertise and collaborative mindset will help us continue to deliver timely, thoughtful commentary on the evolving landscape of scholarly communication.”
In addition to editorial duties, the Deputy Editor will collaborate with TSK contributors and guest authors to shape ideas, edit and refine posts, help coordinate TSK events and webinars, and contribute to the ongoing development of TSK’s social media presence and engagement strategies. The role also includes monitoring blog performance and identifying opportunities to expand reach and readership.
“We’re excited to add this new leadership role to The Scholarly Kitchen,” said Melanie Dolechek, SSP Executive Director. “Adding a Deputy Editor will enhance editorial operations and help us build resilience and continuity as the blog continues to grow and innovate.”
“I’m thrilled to join The Scholarly Kitchen editorial team and extend my contributions to one of my favorite communities of smart, compassionate, and talented people. I am so proud to have this opportunity to support David’s outstanding work to lead this respected and dynamic platform,” said Lettie. “I look forward to working with the Chefs and broader SSP community to explore new ideas and conversations in scholarly publishing.”
The Scholarly Kitchen, a widely read and influential blog established by SSP in 2008, serves as a resource for professionals in scholarly communication. With contributions from a diverse group of industry leaders—known as the “Chefs”—TSK explores emerging trends, challenges, and innovations that shape the future of research dissemination.
Follow Lettie’s work on The Scholarly Kitchen and stay tuned for new posts and projects led in collaboration with the editorial team.
About the Society for Scholarly Publishing The Society for Scholarly Publishing (SSP), founded in 1978, is a nonprofit organization formed to promote and advance communication among all sectors of the scholarly publication community through networking, information dissemination, and facilitation of new developments in the field. SSP members represent all aspects of scholarly publishing—including publishers, printers, e-products developers, technical service providers, librarians, and editors. SSP members come from a wide range of large and small commercial and nonprofit organizations. They meet at SSP’s annual meetings, educational seminars, and regional events to hear the latest trends from respected colleagues and discuss common and mutual (and sometimes divergent) goals and viewpoints.
Contact Melanie Dolechek, Executive Director | info@sspnet.org | 303-422-3914
