Washington DC is more than the nation’s capital—it is also a thriving hub for literature, academic publishing, and independent presses. Home to a mix of government-related publications, policy think tank imprints, independent literary houses, and established publishing firms, DC offers writers a wide range of opportunities to bring their books to life. From large-scale educational publishers to small presses specializing in poetry, history, and fiction, the city provides diverse publishing options in 2025.

Table of Contents

1. Barnett Ghostwriting

Barnett Ghostwriting stands as a versatile publishing partner, bridging the gap between aspiring authors and successful publication. Known for supporting writers in multiple genres, the company offers a comprehensive set of services:

By combining creativity with structured publishing pathways, Barnett Ghostwriting has become a trusted name in Washington DC’s book world.

2. Politics and Prose Press

Politics and Prose, a landmark independent bookstore, also supports publishing initiatives that give local authors opportunities to reach readers.

  • Focuses on nonfiction, memoirs, and local interest titles.

  • Works closely with DC’s intellectual and political writing community.

  • Provides print-on-demand services for small authors.

3. Georgetown University Press

As one of the leading academic publishers in Washington DC, Georgetown University Press specializes in scholarly works and professional titles.

  • Publishes research-driven books in linguistics, political science, theology, and global affairs.

  • Known for bilingual education and foreign language resources.

  • Supports both students and academic professionals with peer-reviewed publications.

4. National Geographic Books

Based in DC, National Geographic Books is a world-renowned publisher with a global reach.

  • Focuses on science, geography, history, and travel titles.

  • Publishes beautifully illustrated nonfiction books.

  • Works with acclaimed authors and experts in multiple disciplines.

5. Island Press

Island Press is dedicated to publishing environmental and sustainability-focused titles.

  • Works with leading thinkers in conservation and ecology.

  • Offers books for policymakers, educators, and the general public.

  • Provides resources that support climate change discussions and urban planning.

6. The Brookings Institution Press

As the publishing arm of the Brookings Institution, this press highlights policy and governance.

  • Publishes research-based works on economics, international relations, and public policy.

  • Widely used by academics, journalists, and political professionals.

  • Known for thought leadership and accessible scholarly works.

7. American Psychological Association Publishing

APA Publishing provides resources for psychology professionals, students, and researchers.

  • Focuses on clinical practice, psychological theory, and education.

  • Publishes peer-reviewed journals and academic books.

  • Supports both academic and applied psychology fields.

8. Counterpoint Press

Counterpoint is known for literary fiction and cultural nonfiction.

  • Publishes unique voices in fiction, memoir, and essays.

  • Highlights authors with bold perspectives and innovative writing styles.

  • Recognized for its commitment to literary quality.

9. National Academies Press

NAP is an essential publisher for academic and scientific communities.

  • Publishes reports and books on science, engineering, and medicine.

  • Works closely with expert committees and national research panels.

  • Provides reliable resources for government, academia, and the public.

10. Howard University Press

Howard University Press reflects the rich cultural and academic traditions of the institution.

  • Specializes in African American history, culture, and literature.

  • Publishes works by scholars, historians, and emerging authors.

  • A cornerstone in Washington DC’s academic publishing scene.

11. The Catholic University of America Press

The Catholic University of America Press is an academic publisher with a strong emphasis on theology, philosophy, and history.

  • Publishes scholarly monographs and reference works.

  • Widely recognized in religious and humanities studies.

  • Serves both academic and faith-based readerships.

12. The Library of Congress Publishing Office

The Library of Congress not only archives America’s literary history but also produces high-quality publications.

  • Creates illustrated books, catalogs, and cultural histories.

  • Focuses on rare collections, American history, and arts.

  • Known for publishing definitive editions of historical materials.

13. The World Bank Publications

Located in Washington DC, The World Bank’s publishing division is a global leader in development studies.

  • Produces economic, policy, and development research books.

  • Works with international experts and policymakers.

  • Distributes knowledge for advancing global development.

14. American Chemical Society Publications

ACS Publications, headquartered in DC, is a leader in chemistry-related publishing.

  • Publishes peer-reviewed journals, textbooks, and reference guides.

  • Covers chemistry, environmental science, and biochemistry.

  • Provides resources for both academic and professional audiences.

15. Peterson Institute for International Economics Press

This press produces publications focused on global finance and trade.

  • Offers books and research reports on economics and policy.

  • Written by leading economists and policy analysts.

  • A trusted source for global economic research.

16. Smithsonian Institution Scholarly Press

As part of the Smithsonian Institution, this press focuses on natural history, art, and culture.

  • Publishes books, monographs, and research papers.

  • Highlights collections and exhibitions from Smithsonian museums.

  • Bridges scholarly research with accessible public works.

17. Gallaudet University Press

Gallaudet University Press serves the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community with specialized works.

  • Publishes books on Deaf studies, sign language, and accessibility.

  • Supports research in linguistics, education, and social sciences.

  • Known for advancing understanding of Deaf culture worldwide.

18. New Academia Publishing

New Academia Publishing is an independent scholarly press based in DC.

  • Focuses on academic research, history, and social sciences.

  • Provides opportunities for scholars to publish globally relevant works.

  • Offers editorial services with international distribution.

19. Potomac Books

Originally founded in Washington DC, Potomac Books is known for history and military publishing.

  • Publishes memoirs, military histories, and political biographies.

  • Appeals to academics, professionals, and general readers.

  • Recognized for high-quality nonfiction works.

20. The Aspen Institute Press

The Aspen Institute Press produces books and reports on leadership, governance, and global issues.

  • Focuses on social innovation and policy reform.

  • Provides resources for business leaders and policymakers.

  • Publishes conference proceedings, essays, and thought leadership works.

21. National Defense University Press

NDU Press publishes military, defense, and strategic studies.

  • Produces scholarly journals and research reports.

  • Serves defense professionals and academic researchers.

  • Works closely with the U.S. Department of Defense.

22. Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Press

Carnegie Endowment’s press publishes works on diplomacy and international relations.

  • Features research by global policy experts.

  • Covers geopolitics, security, and peacebuilding.

  • Known for timely and relevant publications.

23. American Institute of Architects Press

This publishing branch supports architectural studies and design education.

  • Produces reference guides, handbooks, and design-focused titles.

  • Serves architects, students, and professionals.

  • Recognized for advancing architecture and urban planning.

24. United States Institute of Peace Press

USIP Press is dedicated to publishing works on conflict resolution and peace studies.

  • Covers diplomacy, negotiation, and peacebuilding strategies.

  • Provides practical and academic resources.

  • Supports both policymakers and grassroots organizations.

25. American Enterprise Institute Press

AEI Press publishes works from the American Enterprise Institute’s scholars.

  • Focuses on economics, governance, and social policy.

  • Appeals to academics, government officials, and business leaders.

  • Recognized for shaping political and economic debates.

26. American Bar Association Publishing (DC Branch)

The ABA’s DC publishing arm specializes in legal resources and law education.

  • Publishes casebooks, handbooks, and practice guides.

  • Serves attorneys, law students, and policymakers.

  • Offers resources for continuing legal education.

27. American Historical Association Press

This association’s publishing branch focuses on history education and scholarship.

  • Publishes academic journals, guides, and historical works.

  • Supports teachers, students, and historians.

  • Known for advancing historical literacy.

28. National Education Association Publications

The NEA produces works for teachers, policymakers, and educational researchers.

  • Publishes guides, reports, and handbooks.

  • Covers classroom practices, policy reform, and teacher advocacy.

  • Supports educators across the U.S.

29. Federal Bar Association Publications

This association’s publishing branch focuses on federal law and legal education.

  • Produces journals, legal guides, and professional materials.

  • Serves judges, lawyers, and law students.

  • Helps legal professionals stay informed on federal issues.

30. Congressional Quarterly Press

CQ Press publishes political and government-focused resources.

  • Offers reference works, textbooks, and policy guides.

  • Serves journalists, students, and policymakers.

  • Known for accurate and timely political analysis.

31. PublicAffairs Books

PublicAffairs Books, while national in reach, has a strong presence in Washington DC’s publishing landscape.

  • Specializes in nonfiction covering politics, history, and social issues.

  • Known for publishing investigative journalism and biographies.

  • Appeals to readers interested in current affairs and leadership.

32. The Wilson Center Press

As the publishing arm of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, this press produces research-based titles.

  • Focuses on global politics, history, and diplomacy.

  • Publishes works by international scholars and policy experts.

  • Bridges academic research with public policy dialogue.

33. Regnery Publishing

Regnery Publishing is one of the oldest independent publishers in DC, known for political and conservative titles.

  • Publishes works on history, culture, and current events.

  • Known for bestselling political commentary.

  • Recognized as a major influence in political publishing.

34. United States Government Publishing Office (GPO)

The GPO is the official publisher for the U.S. federal government.

  • Produces congressional records, statutes, and federal reports.

  • Offers public access to government documents.

  • Serves as an essential resource for transparency and civic engagement.

35. American Public Health Association Press

APHA Press publishes resources in health policy, public health, and medicine.

  • Produces textbooks, manuals, and research works.

  • Appeals to healthcare professionals and academics.

  • Recognized for advancing public health knowledge.

36. American Red Cross Publications

The American Red Cross produces life-saving guides and educational materials.

  • Publishes handbooks on emergency response and first aid.

  • Focuses on humanitarian and health-related resources.

  • Supports both professionals and general readers.

37. Lexington Books (Rowman & Littlefield)

Lexington Books, part of the Rowman & Littlefield group, is based near DC and has a major presence in the city.

  • Publishes scholarly works in humanities and social sciences.

  • Known for critical studies and in-depth research titles.

  • Serves universities, libraries, and professionals.

38. New America Press

New America Press is affiliated with the New America think tank.

  • Publishes policy-driven books and reports.

  • Covers technology, governance, and innovation.

  • Provides resources for policymakers and researchers.

39. American Foreign Service Association Publications

This association produces works related to diplomacy and foreign service.

  • Publishes memoirs, guides, and professional resources.

  • Serves diplomats, students, and historians.

  • Highlights the role of diplomacy in international relations.

40. The Heritage Foundation Press

The Heritage Foundation publishes research reports and books on public policy.

  • Focuses on political science, economics, and cultural issues.

  • Known for producing influential policy documents.

  • Appeals to policymakers and political thinkers.

41. National Geographic Kids Publishing

A division of National Geographic Books, this imprint focuses on children’s titles.

  • Publishes educational books for young readers.

  • Covers science, animals, and global cultures.

  • Known for visually engaging and informative works.

42. Smithsonian Books

Separate from its scholarly press, Smithsonian Books produces works for general audiences.

  • Publishes illustrated books on history, science, and art.

  • Appeals to both educators and casual readers.

  • Known for high-quality design and photography.

43. Brookland Literary Press

An independent press based in Washington DC, Brookland Literary Press publishes diverse voices.

  • Focuses on fiction, memoir, and poetry.

  • Encourages emerging and underrepresented authors.

  • Highlights the local literary community.

44. Federal Judicial Center Publications

The Federal Judicial Center produces resources for judges and legal professionals.

  • Publishes handbooks, training manuals, and research studies.

  • Serves as a key educational resource for the federal judiciary.

  • Supports the ongoing development of the legal system.

45. Center for Strategic and International Studies Press

CSIS Press produces books and reports on international relations and security.

  • Covers defense, technology, and global strategy.

  • Publishes works by policy experts and researchers.

  • Influential in shaping U.S. foreign policy discussions.

46. American Educational Research Association Publications

AERA produces works on education research and practice.

  • Publishes journals, reports, and handbooks.

  • Covers topics from K–12 to higher education.

  • Serves educators, researchers, and policymakers.

47. Urban Institute Press

The Urban Institute Press publishes research-based works on urban development and public policy.

  • Focuses on housing, economic opportunity, and social welfare.

  • Produces accessible and data-driven works.

  • Recognized for supporting evidence-based policymaking.

48. American Society of International Law Publications

ASIL Publications focus on legal and global governance issues.

  • Publishes books, reports, and scholarly journals.

  • Appeals to lawyers, diplomats, and academics.

  • Recognized for advancing international law.

49. Institute of Medicine (Now National Academy of Medicine) Publications

This branch of the National Academies produces health and medicine-related works.

  • Publishes reports, policy guides, and medical studies.

  • Provides trusted knowledge for public health professionals.

  • Recognized globally for its influence on healthcare policy.

50. Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation Publications

CAEP supports teaching and education quality with its publishing arm.

  • Produces handbooks, guidelines, and research reports.

  • Serves educators, policymakers, and institutions.

  • Promotes excellence in teacher preparation.

51. Institute for Policy Studies Publications

The Institute for Policy Studies publishes works on social justice and progressive policy.

  • Focuses on economic equity, foreign policy, and human rights.

  • Produces books, reports, and research papers.

  • Appeals to activists, policymakers, and academics.

52. National Endowment for the Humanities Publications

NEH produces works that support cultural and historical studies.

  • Publishes reports, research guides, and humanities-focused materials.

  • Serves scholars, educators, and cultural institutions.

  • Known for advancing public understanding of history and arts.

53. American Sociological Association Publications

This publishing arm produces sociological research and educational materials.

  • Publishes journals, handbooks, and textbooks.

  • Covers a wide range of social science topics.

  • Serves academics, students, and researchers.

54. American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Publications

AAAS is a leading global scientific publisher headquartered in DC.

  • Publishes the journal Science and other scientific works.

  • Covers biology, physics, medicine, and environmental science.

  • Serves researchers and scientists worldwide.

55. National Black Writers Conference DC Chapter Press

This organization promotes Black voices in literature and scholarship.

  • Publishes anthologies, essays, and cultural works.

  • Focuses on African American literature and history.

  • Provides a platform for underrepresented voices.

56. American Association of University Women Publications

AAUW produces works that advocate for gender equality in education and the workplace.

  • Publishes reports, studies, and advocacy guides.

  • Focuses on women’s rights, education, and leadership.

  • Appeals to educators, policymakers, and activists.

57. The Migration Policy Institute Press

MPI publishes research-driven works on immigration and migration studies.

  • Covers refugee issues, integration, and global mobility.

  • Produces reports, guides, and academic books.

  • Widely respected in global migration policy circles.

58. National Urban League Publications

The National Urban League supports social and economic equality through publishing.

  • Produces annual reports, handbooks, and advocacy materials.

  • Focuses on civil rights, education, and employment.

  • Appeals to policymakers, activists, and communities.

59. American Anthropological Association Publications

AAA’s publishing division supports anthropology research and education.

  • Publishes journals, monographs, and textbooks.

  • Covers cultural anthropology, archaeology, and social issues.

  • Serves academics, students, and researchers globally.

60. International Monetary Fund Publications (IMF)

Headquartered in DC, IMF produces works on global finance and economics.

  • Publishes research reports, policy briefs, and statistical data.

  • Focuses on international financial stability and development.

  • A vital resource for economists and global policymakers.

61. World Wildlife Fund Publications

The WWF produces environmental and conservation-focused works.

  • Publishes reports, guides, and awareness materials.

  • Focuses on biodiversity, climate change, and sustainability.

  • Appeals to conservationists and global audiences.

62. PEN/Faulkner Foundation Publications

The PEN/Faulkner Foundation supports literature and writing communities.

  • Publishes anthologies and literary collections.

  • Promotes emerging and diverse authors.

  • Known for its contributions to DC’s literary culture.

63. American Political Science Association Publications

APSA produces research works and journals on political science.

  • Publishes American Political Science Review and other resources.

  • Covers political theory, governance, and international affairs.

  • Serves students, educators, and political professionals.

64. Meridian Hill Press

Meridian Hill Press is an independent DC publisher specializing in arts and culture.

  • Publishes poetry, fiction, and essays.

  • Focuses on innovative and experimental voices.

  • Encourages local writers and literary events.

65. The Nature Conservancy Publications

This global nonprofit publishes works on conservation and the environment.

  • Produces guides, research reports, and educational books.

  • Covers sustainability, ecosystems, and biodiversity.

  • Appeals to conservation professionals and the public.

66. American Library Association Washington Office Publications

The ALA’s DC-based branch produces resources on information policy and libraries.

  • Publishes advocacy materials, research guides, and reports.

  • Focuses on digital literacy, freedom of information, and library advocacy.

  • Supports librarians, educators, and policymakers.

67. The Washington Writers’ Publishing House

This nonprofit press is run by and for writers in DC.

  • Publishes poetry and fiction collections annually.

  • Supports regional and emerging authors.

  • Known for fostering a strong local literary community.

68. The Aspen Security Forum Publications

An extension of the Aspen Institute, this imprint publishes works on security and defense.

  • Focuses on cybersecurity, intelligence, and global threats.

  • Produces books, reports, and essays.

  • Appeals to policymakers and defense professionals.

69. The National Press Club Journalism Institute Publications

This publishing division supports journalists and media professionals.

  • Publishes handbooks, research papers, and journalism guides.

  • Focuses on freedom of the press and professional standards.

  • Serves journalists, students, and educators.

70. The National Museum of African American History and Culture Press

This Smithsonian museum’s publishing branch highlights African American culture.

  • Produces exhibition catalogs, history books, and cultural studies.

  • Publishes works for both general audiences and scholars.

  • Recognized for preserving and promoting African American heritage.

71. DC Writers’ Workshop Press

A small press supporting Washington DC’s writing workshops and communities.

  • Publishes anthologies, poetry, and short fiction.

  • Encourages new and local authors.

  • Builds community among writers in the capital.

72. American Council on Education Publications

ACE produces educational and higher education policy works.

  • Publishes reports, guides, and academic resources.

  • Focuses on leadership, diversity, and higher education reform.

  • Appeals to college leaders, policymakers, and educators.

73. National Endowment for the Arts Publications

The NEA publishes works promoting arts and cultural initiatives.

  • Produces reports, anthologies, and cultural studies.

  • Highlights the role of arts in American life.

  • Serves artists, educators, and policymakers.

74. Capitol Hill Press

Capitol Hill Press is a DC-based independent publisher.

  • Focuses on political commentary, memoirs, and history.

  • Works with journalists, political figures, and historians.

  • Appeals to readers interested in governance and civic life.

75. American Historical Collections Press

This press focuses on preserving and publishing U.S. historical materials.

  • Produces collections, anthologies, and academic works.

  • Covers early American history, politics, and cultural heritage.

  • Serves historians, researchers, and general readers.

Conclusion

Washington DC’s publishing scene reflects its role as both a cultural hub and a political capital. From academic presses like Georgetown University Press to independent literary houses such as the Washington Writers’ Publishing House, and from government-backed publishers to nonprofit organizations, the city offers a rich variety of opportunities for authors in 2025. Whether a writer is looking for a scholarly publisher, a literary community, or policy-driven research outlets, DC provides an unmatched spectrum of publishing options.

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