What is the notability guideline for books and authors on Wikipedia?
The notability guidelines for books and authors on Wikipedia requires that the subject has received significant coverage in reliable sources that are independent of the subject. For books and authors, this can include published works such as newspaper articles, other books, television documentaries, bestseller lists, and reviews. The subject must also meet one or more of the specific notability criteria outlined in the Wikipedia Notability Policy for Books and Authors.
What types of sources are considered valid for establishing notability for books and authors?
As listed above, reliable sources such as newspaper articles, other books, television documentaries, bestseller lists, and reviews can be used to establish notability in this context. Sources that cannot be used toward establishing notability include media re-prints of press releases, flap copy, or other publications where the author, publisher, agent, or other self-interested parties advertise or speak about the book.
Can books and authors that don’t meet the general notability guideline still be included in Wikipedia?
Yes, under certain conditions. For example, if the book or author has made a significant contribution to a notable or significant motion picture, art form, event, or political or religious movement, they may qualify as notable. A book that is taught at multiple educational institutions, or an author considered to be of historical significance, may also qualify.
Are there specific notability guidelines for different categories of books and authors?
Yes. For example, academic and technical books have different notability criteria, such as being published by an academic press or being widely cited in other academic publications. Additionally, not-yet-published books, non-contemporary books, and books by Wikipedians have their own unique notability criteria and considerations.
What are the specific notability criteria for academic and technical books on Wikipedia?
For academic and technical books, notability criteria include being published by an academic press, being widely cited by other academic publications or in the media, having multiple editions or translations, being influential in its specialty area or adjunct disciplines, and being taught or required reading in reputable educational institutions.
What are some common challenges in establishing notability for academic and technical books?
It can be difficult to find reliable sources that demonstrate the book’s influence in its field, or provide evidence of the book’s use in institutions. Additionally, academic and technical books often have smaller print runs and may only be available in specialized libraries and bookstores, making it more difficult to demonstrate notability.
How does the notability guideline apply to self-published books and authors on Wikipedia?
While there may be exceptions, such as historically significant works, these books generally need to meet the same notability criteria as other books and authors. A self-published book’s ISBN, a national library listing, or availability through online retailers, does not guarantee notability.
What are the notability criteria for not-yet-published books on Wikipedia?
Not-yet-published books can be included in Wikipedia only if they are not excluded by the “Wikipedia is not a crystal ball” policy and meet criteria other than those provided by the general notability guideline. In such cases, there should be independent sources providing strong evidence that the book will be published, including the title of the book and an approximate date of publication. The anticipation of the book should be notable in its own right.
How do the notability guidelines apply to non-contemporary books on Wikipedia?
In this case, commonsense should be applied. Possible considerations in determining notability include how widely the book has been cited or written about, the number of editions of the book, whether it has been reprinted, the fame that the book enjoys or enjoyed in the past, its place in the history of literature, its value as a historical source, and its age.
How should derivative articles, such as articles about characters or themes from a book, be handled on Wikipedia?
Not every book warrants separate articles for its characters or themes. While a book may be notable, its derivative articles may not be. In cases where a book has been divided too finely to support the notability of individual subtopics, merging content back into the book’s article is appropriate. In some situations, it may be more appropriate to feature material about the book in the author’s article or a bibliography rather than creating a separate article for the book.
