US Book Publishers Quietly Adopt AI as Staff Push Back
Several major US publishers, including HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster and Hachette, are using large language models such as Claude and ChatGPT without public disclosure, according to Wired. Employees say the push is unwelcome and unclear.
Three of the US "Big Five" book publishers — HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster and Hachette — have been quietly building AI tools into their work without public disclosure or author consent. That is the finding of a Wired report based on interviews with more than two dozen industry workers, who spoke anonymously to protect their jobs. Publicly, the industry appears to be resisting generative AI; this year, for example, publishers have sued Google over copyright infringement.
What is being used, and for what
Workers say large language models (AI systems that generate text), such as Claude and ChatGPT, are used to email literary agents, write publicity and back-cover copy, design cover art and produce marketing materials, often on executives' instructions. Publicity copy is among the most common uses. Literary agents also suspect that some editors have used AI to write rejection letters, and employees at all three companies say those suspicions are justified.
HarperCollins and Simon & Schuster
HarperCollins leadership bought Claude licences from Anthropic but reportedly did not know how to put them to use. Dozens of staff were designated "AI Champions" and asked to find use cases in monthly brainstorming sessions. The company has also bought ChatGPT and Jasper licences. When employees raised legal, ethical and environmental concerns, one was described as "the cost of doing business." HarperCollins did not respond to requests for comment.
In May 2024, Simon & Schuster held an employee contest for the best AI use cases, with a $10,000 prize for the winner. The company later rolled back some of the promotion after staff complaints. In recent weeks, employees began collecting signatures on an open letter to CEO Greg Greeley opposing a trial of Skan AI, software aimed at analysing workflows. On October 6, Greeley confirmed the company was exploring the product but said no decision had been made.
Company responses
A Hachette spokesperson said the company supports AI for operational purposes but not creative uses, including communication with authors. Simon & Schuster's Wibke Grutjen said use of AI tools is not mandatory and only vetted tools are allowed.
Agents fear that manuscript text could be fed into open models and are adding contract clauses banning it. Most of those interviewed simply want clear guidelines and disclosure about how AI is used.
