Daily News Item 2026-05-27 10:13

A recent survey by the Association of American Literary Agents found that members, particularly those who are early in their careers, are concerned about financial instability, delays brought about by publisher consolidation and staffing reductions, and the effects of AI on the industry, according to Publishers Weekly. The results indicate that the average literary agent today holds more than one position within their agency; works more than forty hours a week, including on weekends; and receives more than twenty queries from potential new authors each week. “The survey makes clear that literary agents are carrying an increasingly complex and demanding set of responsibilities in a rapidly changing publishing environment,” AALA president Regina Brooks said in a statement. “These findings reflect larger concerns about sustainability, workload, compensation, and the long-term health of the publishing ecosystem.” (Read “Q&A: Regina Brooks Leads AALA” by Katie Arnold-Ratliff.)