Bridget Barry

Bridget Barry – Editor

With nearly two decades of experience in scholarly and academic book publishing, I understand the challenges and rewards of writing.

Overview

I have been an acquiring editor at a university press for more than a decade. I have extensive experience in the developmental editing of book proposals and manuscripts, from memoirs to scholarly dissertations, with an emphasis in the field of history. I have also worked as a proofreader for the United States Institute of Peace Press.

I am familiar with all aspects of the book publishing world. I read hundreds of proposals and many manuscripts each year, and I know what attracts agents, editors, and readers. I am a careful and thoughtful editor, and my primary goal is making an author's work the best it can be. In developmental editing I focus on writing style, including crafting a strong narrative, as well as improving organization and argument in scholarly works. I will correct grammar issues, but leave the nitty-gritty of punctuation to a copyeditor!

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs History Nature Political Science & Current Affairs
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

United States Institute of Peace Press

May, 2017 — Mar, 2025 (almost 8 years)
I proofread reports and manuscripts for grammar, writing style, accuracy, and consistency; maintained house style and fact-checked as needed.

University of Nebraska Press

May, 2011 — Present
I work with a wide range of book projects and authors, from the contract stage through manuscript development and editing. I have served as Editor in Chief since 2020.

University of Nebraska Press

May, 2005 — Jun, 2011 (about 6 years)
I assisted with all functions of the acquisitions department, including reviewing and summarizing manuscript submissions, preparing manuscripts for copyediting, and preparing project memos.

Bridget has 3 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Julie B.

Julie B.

Apr, 2026

Bridget was great to work with and gave very detailed notes regarding tangible corrections I can make to ensure my book sings, including feedback on tense, arrangements, flow and technical corrections. She even edited an early chapter (bonus) so I can see what she meant with her feedback. Bridget...
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Jim G.

Jim G.

Mar, 2026

I've not had time to fully take advantage of the information provided. But I especially appreciated the offer to connect by video, and the extended offer to communicate. I'm sure I'll continue to be in touch as I work through her suggestions.
Rachel L.

Rachel L.

Nov, 2025

Bridget was wonderful to work with--responsive, insightful and supportive. She was a great help to me in moving my project forward. I'm glad to have had the opportunity to work with her.
Bridget B.
Thank you, Rachel! I enjoyed learning about your book project, I'm looking forward to seeing it in print!

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