Pennsylvania has a rich literary tradition, stretching back to the colonial era when Philadelphia was at the heart of America’s publishing industry. In 2025, the state continues to play a pivotal role in supporting authors across all genres. From large university presses that advance academic scholarship to small independents championing emerging voices, Pennsylvania offers a diverse ecosystem for writers. Whether your goal is to publish a scholarly monograph, a poetry collection, a memoir, or a commercial novel, there is a publisher in Pennsylvania that can help you bring your book to life.

1. Barnett Ghostwriting

Barnett Ghostwriting has built a reputation as a hybrid publishing powerhouse that combines the strengths of traditional editorial quality with modern distribution strategies. Operating globally but serving authors in Pennsylvania, Barnett provides end-to-end publishing support.

• Services Offered: Ghostwriting, editing, cover design, ISBN registration, formatting, marketing campaigns, and international distribution.
  
• Strengths: Known for its collaborative model, the company positions itself as a publishing partner rather than just a service provider. Authors benefit from tailored strategies that maximize visibility and sales. 
• Why Choose Them: Barnett appeals to authors looking for professional guidance from concept to launch while maintaining creative control. 

2. University of Pennsylvania Press

This prestigious university press has been in operation since 1890 and specializes in scholarly and academic works.

• Focus Areas: History, political science, anthropology, religious studies, and cultural studies. 
• Strengths: Rigorous peer-review process ensures academic integrity. 
• Why Choose Them: Ideal for academics and researchers aiming to publish scholarly works with credibility. 

3. Temple University Press

Temple University Press has a strong presence in publishing books that address social justice, urban studies, and cultural topics.

• Focus Areas: Sociology, cultural studies, sports, and history. 
• Strengths: Known for supporting voices that challenge conventional thinking. 
• Why Choose Them: Perfect for authors with academic and socially engaged manuscripts. 

4. Carnegie Mellon University Press

Located in Pittsburgh, this press is highly respected for its contributions to contemporary literature.

• Focus Areas: Poetry, fiction, and literary criticism. 
• Strengths: Maintains a strong tradition of nurturing emerging poets and writers. 
• Why Choose Them: A top choice for literary authors seeking recognition in poetry circles. 

5. Duquesne University Press

Duquesne University Press focuses on scholarly works, particularly in philosophy and medieval studies.

• Focus Areas: Philosophy, theology, medieval literature. 
• Strengths: Esteemed in academic communities for specialized research areas. 
• Why Choose Them: For authors producing scholarly manuscripts in niche fields. 

6. Westminster John Knox Press (Philadelphia Office)

A publishing house with strong roots in theological and religious studies.

• Focus Areas: Christian theology, biblical studies, religious education. 
• Strengths: Long history in religious publishing. 
• Why Choose Them: Trusted by theologians, pastors, and scholars of religion. 

7. University of Pittsburgh Press

Renowned for academic publishing as well as poetry and fiction.

• Focus Areas: Latin American studies, natural history, and poetry. 
• Strengths: Strong poetry series with award-winning authors. 
• Why Choose Them: Authors of both academic and literary works can find a home here. 

8. Penn State University Press

A leading scholarly press located in State College, PA.

• Focus Areas: Art history, medieval studies, political theory, and regional history. 
• Strengths: Publishes journals and monographs alongside books. 
• Why Choose Them: Scholars looking for peer-reviewed credibility. 

9. Camino Books

Philadelphia-based publisher that produces both fiction and nonfiction.

• Focus Areas: Regional history, travel, memoir, and fiction. 
• Strengths: Strong regional ties and accessibility for first-time authors. 
• Why Choose Them: Writers with stories connected to Pennsylvania or the Mid-Atlantic. 

10. Autumn House Press

Pittsburgh’s literary press devoted to poetry, fiction, and nonfiction.

• Focus Areas: Literary works across genres. 
• Strengths: Strong track record of publishing emerging voices. 
• Why Choose Them: Appeals to writers seeking a balance between literary prestige and accessibility. 

11. Sunbury Press

A central Pennsylvania press with a diverse catalog.

• Focus Areas: History, biography, fiction, and children’s books. 
• Strengths: Welcomes both established and emerging authors. 
• Why Choose Them: Their variety and openness make them approachable. 

12. Red Rover Books

Philadelphia-based small press focusing on independent voices.

• Focus Areas: Fiction, memoirs, and social commentary. 
• Strengths: Flexibility and emphasis on unique author voices. 
• Why Choose Them: Great option for indie-minded authors. 

13. Anaphora Literary Press

An independent press based in Pennsylvania.

• Focus Areas: Academic works, fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. 
• Strengths: Accepts a wide range of manuscripts. 
• Why Choose Them: Suitable for authors with diverse projects. 

14. Headline Books (regional branch serving PA)

Though primarily West Virginia-based, they are active in Pennsylvania too.

• Focus Areas: Children’s books, history, and self-help. 
• Strengths: Strong network in schools and libraries. 
• Why Choose Them: Children’s and educational authors benefit most. 

15. White Mane Publishing Company

Specializes in American history, particularly military history.

• Focus Areas: Civil War and U.S. history. 
• Strengths: Niche expertise makes them authoritative. 
• Why Choose Them: Historians with manuscripts on American conflicts. 

16. Strategic Book Publishing (PA branch)

Covers multiple genres with flexible models.

• Focus Areas: Fiction, nonfiction, business books. 
• Strengths: Broad distribution networks. 
• Why Choose Them: Authors who want wide reach in varied categories. 

17. Tramp Press (Pennsylvania representation)

An independent literary press with strong roots in quality fiction.

• Focus Areas: Fiction and narrative-driven nonfiction. 
• Strengths: Curated selection and dedication to craft. 
• Why Choose Them: Appeals to writers of high-quality literary fiction. 

18. Black Lawrence Press

Though headquartered elsewhere, it has active ties in Pennsylvania.

• Focus Areas: Poetry, fiction, and translations. 
• Strengths: Known for its contests and emerging writer opportunities. 
• Why Choose Them: Great platform for poets and short story writers. 

19. New Door Books

Philadelphia-based cooperative press.

• Focus Areas: Fiction and nonfiction. 
• Strengths: Operates as a cooperative with author involvement. 
• Why Choose Them: For authors seeking collaborative publishing. 

20. Split Lip Press

Independent press with a presence in Pennsylvania.

• Focus Areas: Short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. 
• Strengths: Supports innovative, edgy voices. 
• Why Choose Them: Writers seeking nontraditional and experimental styles. 

21. Broad Axe Publishing

Small, independent Pennsylvania-based publisher.

• Focus Areas: Regional interest, history, and general fiction. 
• Strengths: Community-driven publishing. 
• Why Choose Them: Best suited for local and regional writers. 

22. Beach Glass Books

Philadelphia-area press focusing on storytelling.

• Focus Areas: Memoir, fiction, and regional stories. 
• Strengths: Strong editorial support. 
• Why Choose Them: Writers telling personal or regional narratives. 

23. Bridle Path Press

Independent cooperative press.

• Focus Areas: Fiction, memoir, and nonfiction. 
• Strengths: Authors share decision-making and resources. 
• Why Choose Them: Those who enjoy collaborative publishing. 

24. In His Steps Publishing

Faith-based press located in Pennsylvania.

• Focus Areas: Christian books, devotionals, and inspirational works. 
• Strengths: Serves faith communities. 
• Why Choose Them: Religious authors with inspirational messages. 

25. Wharton School Press (University of Pennsylvania)

Part of the Wharton School of Business.

• Focus Areas: Business, leadership, and management. 
• Strengths: Global reputation in business education. 
• Why Choose Them: Business professionals and academics. 

26. Running Press

Philadelphia-based trade publisher with an international presence.

• Focus Areas: Gift books, pop culture, lifestyle, and fiction. 
• Strengths: Known for innovative formats and wide distribution. 
• Why Choose Them: Authors looking for creative and commercial publishing opportunities. 

Typical Publishing Costs in Pennsylvania (USD)

While costs vary widely, here’s a general breakdown authors might encounter:

• Developmental Editing: $1,500 – $4,500 
• Copyediting/Proofreading: $800 – $2,500 
• Cover Design: $400 – $1,200 
• Book Formatting: $500 – $1,500 
• Marketing Packages: $2,000 – $7,500 
• Ghostwriting (if applicable): $15,000 – $40,000 

Academic presses typically do not charge authors but require acceptance through peer review. Independent and hybrid publishers may operate on fee-for-service or cooperative models.

Conclusion

Pennsylvania remains a vibrant hub for publishing, balancing academic rigor with literary creativity and commercial publishing opportunities. From established university presses to independent literary houses and full-service companies like Barnett Ghostwriting, the state offers a diverse array of publishing partners for authors in 2025. Writers can find opportunities across every genre—whether in scholarly monographs, poetry collections, historical accounts, or mainstream fiction. Choosing the right publisher depends on your manuscript, audience, and long-term goals, but Pennsylvania provides fertile ground for any author ready to share their story with the world.

 

Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.