Book Publishers Are Quietly Using More AI. Staff Are Revolting
wired ·
Despite public postures of resisting generative AI, major US publishers including HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, and Hachette are quietly integrating large language models into their workflows. Employees report that these tools are being used for publicity copy, cover art design, email correspondence with agents, and marketing materials, often under executive pressure to adopt new efficiencies. Staff at these companies have expressed significant distress over the ethical implications, environmental impact, and lack of transparency regarding AI usage. Tensions have escalated to the point of revolt, with workers organizing open letters against surveillance software like Skan AI and protesting mandatory "AI Champion" initiatives. Many employees feel forced to use shortcuts due to severe staff reductions and increased workloads following recent layoffs. While executives argue that AI frees up time for creative work, critics warn that using LLMs for operational tasks undermines the human-centric nature of publishing. The industry is currently grappling with a disconnect between corporate profit motives and the concerns of editorial and public relations staff.
wired