Introduction
The University of Virginia Library’s Editorial Style Guide should be applied to all new and existing content of U.Va. Library’s publications (see Writing for the Web for web-specific writing tips) to ensure clear and consistent communication with our audiences. For example: A Library patron should not see “UVA Library” in one publication , “UVa Library” on another, and then receive a brochure in the mail from the “U.Va. Libraries.” (See the University of Virginia Library entry for the correct way to refer to the U.Va. Library.) The mission of these guidelines is to present the Library as a professional, integrated entity through consistent online and print publications.
How to use the Editorial Style Guide
To use the Editorial Style Guide, first familiarize yourself with the best practices covered in Writing for Publications Guidelines. Then, skim through the A to Z Entries, stopping to read in-depth when you are unfamiliar with a rule. Finally, bookmark the guidelines and entries for quick reference when you have a question—it's also a good idea to bookmark the Editorial Style Guide when writing for print publications. Lastly, if you cannot find an answer in the Editorial Style Guide, consult the references listed in the sidebar to your right.
If you have questions about an entry or suggestions for entries to be added to the Editorial Style Guide, please contact the Communications Department.
Our writing guidelines are culled from Strunk & White’s The Elements of Style, The Chicago Manual of Style, 15th edition (Chicago), and The Associated Press Style Guide (AP). For spelling, refer to The New Oxford American Dictionary (NOAD). If variations of a word are provided, always go with the first spelling. Please contact the Communications Department with any questions concerning this guide.