Around the Web: Cookbooks and Copyright, Inclusive Language, Persistence, and Combining Bookshelves

Welcome back, readers! This week we’re sharing a look at cookbooks and copyright law, some words to reconsider using, a tale of combining book collections, and a story about persevering in writing.

Who Owns a Recipe?

Earlier this year a publisher withdrew a cookbook after allegations of plagiarism. The incident has got people discussing who owns the rights to recipes and how credit can be shared or given in a field that, in many ways, relies on sharing and adapting what came before. The New York Times takes a look at cooking and copyright law for those interested.

Words and Phrases to Reconsider Using

While language changes over time, many words and phrases we use today have hurtful origins. These racist, sexist, or ableist etymologies can mean these words remain hurtful to certain groups today. CBC discusses some of these words and phrases. If you’re working toward being a better ally or becoming a more inclusive speaker or writer, this inclusive language article is for you.

On Persistence

Author Rebecca Kim Wells started writing a novel in 2013. Now, eight years later, it has finally been published. She shares how she faced challenges and shelved the project but ultimately came back to it over on the Teen Librarian Toolbox. If you’ve ever considered giving up on a creative project, you might find her story of persistence helpful.

Combining Bookshelves

What do you do with your book collection when you move in with someone and have limited space? Alexander Chee describes the mixed feelings of sharing bookshelves with a partner, contemplating what it means to keep separate copies or value your editions over your partners. Book collectors/hoarders, you may enjoy Chee’s thoughts.