The inspiration for this volume is Ron Gross’s The Independent Scholar’s Handbook (1982; 1993), the seminal guide for independent scholars, and we are honored that Ron has provided the foreword for this new volume. Thirty years after the publication of his Handbook, the academic landscape has changed immeasurably, with the arrival of the internet and ever- increasing adjunctification of universities. In this new climate, NCIS offers an updated Guide for Independent Scholars, with contributing authors now working in their fields of research.

The book opens with a definition of independent scholarship, questions that are explored by editors Amanda J. Haste and Linda Baines.  Susan Breitzer shows how independent scholars fit into the academic landscape, and Linda Baines focuses on “Late-Blooming Researchers.”

Part 2, “Journeys to Independent Scholarship,” consists of three personal essays: former diplomat Ruth Adler shares her experience of completing two PhDs, delving into her reasons for undertaking these major projects and how she reached the finish line. Former academic administrator Jane S. Gabin tells of how her career fed into a life of activism and trying to help improve working conditions for adjunct/contingent faculty. Kathryn Burrows relates the challenges and fulfillment of her status as an independent scholar.

In Part 3, “Making Life Easier for Ourselves,” Tisa M. Anders tackles the power of mentorship, Phillip Reid discusses life as an independent historian, and Susan Breitzer draws inspiration from creative works to show how she maintains her “spark and motivation” in independent research.

Part 4, “Practical Guides for Independent Scholars,” focuses on the nitty-gritty of research. Amanda J. Haste takes on interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research, and later how to ensure rigor through peer review; Sandra A. Ham explains technical writing; Kevin Hans Waitkuweit discusses using data, methods and software; and Helen Kara investigates ethical issues.

In Part 5, “How to Survive as an Independent Scholar,” Phillip Reid addresses grants, Helen Kara tackles the all-important question of making a living, and Amanda J. Haste and Linda Baines explore self-care.

To close the book, Part 6 offers “Resources for Independent Scholars,” including many of the physical and virtual books, articles, blogs, and Facebook/Meta pages that can be so useful in supporting our academic lives.