Submissions

Writer's Guidelines

COLUMBIA is a journal of popular history. It is edited for the general public as opposed to the scholarly one, with the intent of inviting readership through clear, easily followed writing and interesting illustrations. Brevity is valued. The geographic focus of COLUMBIA is on Washington, but its coverage includes all of what was originally the Oregon Country. The topical scope is equally broad. Biographical portraits and articles on 20th-century phenomena are all welcome.

The preferred article is one that will be of interest to the whole state or region, not merely a single locality. The best in local history, which may well be accepted for publication, is that which is grounded in the broad pattern of state, regional and, on occasion, national history. "Articles" based on a coherent series of photographic or other images (paintings, drawings, etc.) are especially welcome. In a similar vein, museums are encouraged to view COLUMBIA as an outlet for publicizing first-rate exhibitions and related scholarship.

Stylistically, articles should be footnoted, if applicable, but few if any of these citations will be included in the published version to keep faith with COLUMBIA's popular orientation. In most instances authors will be responsible for identifying and providing illustrative material, procuring permissions if necessary, or, at a minimum, offering suggestions to the editors regarding suitable imagery. COLUMBIA will use the utmost care in protecting and preserving original photographs, slides and color separations, but will not accept responsibility for accidental loss or damage.

An expression of interest by COLUMBIA in a potential article is not a commitment to publish. Unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope (or a check to cover return postage), COLUMBIA will not return manuscripts or other materials.

From time to time COLUMBIA may commission an article and will pay a negotiated fee. Otherwise, COLUMBIA, operating on limited funds, will pay authors with a token honorarium of $25 and two issues of the magazine in which the author's article appears. (Up to ten additional copies may be purchased by the author at a 40 percent discount.)

Manuscript Submissions

While COLUMBIA does accept unsolicited manuscripts, the editors prefer an advance query (either in letter or e-mail form). Direct queries to Christina Dubois at the above address.

All unsolicited manuscripts and photographs submitted must include return postage (in stamps) and suitable packaging to ensure their safe return. Although reasonable care will be taken with materials received, no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicitated materials.

Send queries to the Editor.

Advertising in COLUMBIA

For information about advertising in COLUMBIA or to obtain a copy of our advertising specifications, rates and deadlines, visit the advertising page.

Letters to the Editor

Letters to the editor may be submitted either in letter or e-mail form. Only letters accompanied by the author's name, phone number, and return address can be printed in the magazine. Direct letters to the Editor.

Book Reviews

Address all review copies and related communications to:

Robert C. Carriker
Department of History
Gonzaga University
Spokane, WA 99258

Special Service for the Visually Impaired

Readers who are visually impaired can receive an enlarged-print copy of COLUMBIA upon request. Direct written requests to the Editor.