UM Press Comes to Life

Ready for Press
Montanans wishing to publish books about the state won't need to look far for a press anymore. The University is reviving its imprint, University of Montana Press, for selected works by Montanans about the state, its people, cultures and art.

The goals of the University Press will be threefold. Jim Foley, UM's Executive Vice President, said the press will have a forward-thinking strategy to put UM on the map, make a little money and bring forth visionary thinking about the future. "It matters how this works," Foley remarked, explaining the careful tack the University is taking in the press's revival.

Rick Graetz, founder of "Montana Magazine" is deeply involved in the press's resurgence. "We're trying to get books out that should be published," he said. "We will hit the ground running." The UM Press's first publication is due out this spring.

"Last Tango in Melrose, Montana" is a collection of humorous columns written for regional magazines by the late journalist and UM alum Dan Vichorek. All royalties from the book will go to a scholarship fund for the school of journalism. "Our focus is to get into the fabric of the state," said Graetz, "not just to entertain, but to educate people about Montana."

"We're going to publish things that pay for themselves or make us some money," added Foley. "This isn't going to be a losing proposition."

A seven-member committee decides the direction of the press, and what to print. Three books have been agreed upon thus far. After "Tango," a book by historian Rafael Chacon about Montana architect AJ Gibson will be released in conjunction with the anniversary of certain Gibson buildings. Last is a book of photography by Helena's Richard Buswell.
Dr. Buswell will self-fund publication and marketing of his book, providing the University Press free publicity.

The first three books were chosen for their potential to reach diverse audiences, expanding knowledge of the University Press. "So few people even know there is a University of Montana Press," said Foley, adding "we get a couple proposals every month." With the new press up and running, Foley anticipates interest to surge. "Everybody's excited about this," Graetz concurred.

The press will be a full-service shop, the men explained. "We'll be doing everything," said Foley.

"All design, pre-press work, etc., is going to be done here," Graetz added. Even the proofreading contracts are with Montanans - former UM alums, Graetz pointed out. Graetz believes there will be opportunities to employ more Montanans, and to involve University departments and programs as the press expands.

Actual printing will be done in-house, too. The University Printing and Graphics department is now computer-to-print ready, and has a recently purchased four-color press, allowing for faster, better color printing. Ken Price, Director of Printing and Graphics, is credited with bringing the department into the modern world.

Before Price took over two and a half years ago, the print shop relied on an old two color press, and everything had to be run through twice to get full color. Price is now testing chemical free printing. "We are one of the first, if not the first, University trying this system," he revealed. "There are still a few bugs to work out," he said, but there is excitement for the new process. "We're trying to push the limits on our quality," said Price.

The 2002 four color press (purchased used by the cost-conscious Price) uses "some of the latest automation" to ensure color accuracy. "For a college," Price said, "we're on the cutting edge of some of our printing technology." That technology will work to the advantage of the University Press, Foley believes. "Momentum will build, and people will say "Wow."