Title: Social Media: A Reference Handbook Series: Contemporary World Issues Author/Editor: Kelli S. Burns, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Zimmerman School of Advertising and Mass Communications, University of South Florida Publisher: ABC-CLIO The use of social media has grown exponentially over the last 20 years, and with this growth has come a host of issues, questions, and benefits. From concerns about data privacy to the problem of online harassment, social media have created a whole suite of interrelated issues linked to the technology. Social media can also redefine interpersonal relationships, mobilize a revolution, connect celebrities with fans, provide average people platforms for sharing their views or promoting themselves, engage consumers in an effort to sell products, or inspire people to donate money to a cause. Social Media: A Reference Handbook will explore in detail the evolution of social media and the multitude of issues related to social media in society. Social Media: A Reference Handbook will include 8-10 original essays of approximately 1,000 words by social media scholars from a range of disciplines. These essays will be featured in the "Perspectives" chapter to provide crucial, diverse viewpoints and fresh insights to the social media conversation. Essays may address the role of social media in contexts such as politics, social change, community engagement, fundraising, popular culture, business, marketing, health communication, and journalism, among others. Additionally, essays may discuss social media issues such as privacy, harassment, personal safety, trust, and interpersonal relationships. Essays may also address such topics as social media trends, cultural shifts, use of social media in a specific culture or country, online identity development, and a networked society. Personal viewpoints and experiences are also welcome. To submit an essay proposal, please send a paragraph describing your idea and your CV to kburns@usf.edu<mailto:kburns@usf.edu>. Each essay author will receive up to $100 along with appropriate access to the e-book version to be paid following publication of the book. Proposal Submission Deadline: July 1, 2015 Notification of Acceptance: July 15, 2015 Final Essay Deadline: October 1, 2015 Publication: 2016 Best, Kelli Burns, Ph.D. Associate Professor Zimmerman School of Advertising and Mass Communications University of South Florida