Online Story Hub makes editorial decisions independently, with the reader’s trust and the writer’s rights in view. This policy describes the standard we are building toward. It cannot predict every unusual case, but it gives contributors and readers a clear basis for asking questions.
Selection
We consider originality, craft, clarity, emotional or intellectual effect, audience suitability, and fit with the current publishing calendar. We do not accept work because a writer has paid for a separate service, knows an editor, or promises to promote the page. A strong submission may still be declined when the schedule is full or the piece does not fit the list.
Editing
Accepted work may receive corrections to spelling, grammar, punctuation, formatting, accessibility, and house style. When an edit changes meaning, character, structure, tone, or a substantial passage, the author should be able to review it before publication. The aim is not to sand every voice into the same smooth surface.
Originality, attribution, and AI
Contributors must own or control the rights needed for their work and identify permitted quotations or third-party material. We do not knowingly publish plagiarism. Substantial use of generative artificial intelligence must be disclosed. Assistive spelling or grammar tools do not normally need a special declaration, but the named author remains responsible for every published sentence.
Accuracy in nonfictional material
Stories may be fictional, but author biographies, editorial notes, interviews, and factual claims should be honest. We may request sources for consequential claims. Fiction based on real people can raise privacy, defamation, and safety concerns; a disclaimer does not automatically solve them.
Corrections and updates
Meaningful factual errors should be corrected promptly and transparently. Minor typographical fixes may be made without a formal note. A correction that changes the reader’s understanding may be labelled with the date and nature of the change.
Removal and archiving
Publication creates a public record, so removal is not automatic. We may remove, restrict, or replace material for infringement, legal risk, serious safety concerns, consent problems, fabricated authorship, contractual reasons, or exceptional harm. Where possible, the URL may retain an explanatory notice.
Commercial separation
Advertising, sponsorship, affiliate arrangements, and paid editorial services must not buy favourable coverage or guaranteed publication. Commercial relationships should be labelled. Sponsors may support a section but do not receive secret control over independent editorial conclusions.
Conflicts and complaints
An editor should disclose a close personal, professional, or financial conflict that could reasonably affect a decision. Complaints may be sent through the Contact page with the exact URL, issue, and requested resolution.