
Louisiana has a rich cultural and literary history, shaped by its diverse communities, deep-rooted traditions, and vibrant storytelling. From New Orleans’ thriving arts scene to university presses that foster academic excellence, the state provides a broad spectrum of opportunities for authors. Whether you are an aspiring writer, an academic researcher, or an established novelist, Louisiana’s publishing industry offers a blend of traditional, independent, and hybrid publishers to suit every need. This article highlights the top 55 book publishing companies in Louisiana for 2025, showcasing their specialties, contributions, and areas of expertise.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
Barnett Ghostwriting has positioned itself as a versatile publishing service provider, helping authors across genres bring their manuscripts to life. While widely recognized for its ghostwriting expertise, the company also provides editing, book design, and publishing support.
- Known for assisting both new and established writers.
- Services range from developmental editing to full-scale publication support.
- Focus on storytelling, memoirs, fiction, and non-fiction.
2. Louisiana State University Press
A cornerstone of scholarly publishing in the region, LSU Press is celebrated for its dedication to academic and cultural works.
- Publishes history, literary studies, Southern culture, and poetry.
- Strong emphasis on high-quality peer-reviewed scholarship.
- Recognized for award-winning titles that shape regional and national discourse.
3. University of Louisiana at Lafayette Press
This university press contributes significantly to the preservation and dissemination of Louisiana’s heritage.
- Publishes works on Cajun and Creole history, literature, and cultural studies.
- Offers resources for academics, researchers, and general readers.
- Plays a role in sustaining Louisiana’s bilingual and multicultural traditions.
4. Pelican Publishing Company
Headquartered in New Orleans, Pelican Publishing has long been associated with Louisiana’s literary identity.
- Focus on regional history, children’s books, and cookbooks.
- Strong catalog highlighting Southern traditions and cuisine.
- Known for its role in popularizing local culture nationwide.
5. UL Press (University of Louisiana Press)
Distinct from the main university imprint, UL Press publishes a range of works tied to the broader academic and cultural scene.
- Highlights regional studies, fiction, and local interest works.
- Contributes to both scholarly and public readerships.
- Supports authors who explore Louisiana identity and heritage.
6. Xavier University Press
As the only historically Black Catholic university in the U.S., Xavier University also operates a respected press.
- Focus on African American studies, religious scholarship, and education.
- Provides a platform for minority voices and underrepresented authors.
- Balances academic rigor with accessibility for general readers.
7. Bayou Press
Bayou Press reflects Louisiana’s grassroots literary traditions, with an emphasis on regional storytelling.
- Publishes fiction, memoirs, and poetry inspired by Southern landscapes.
- Strong connections to local writers’ communities.
- Aims to preserve oral traditions and transform them into written form.
8. UNO Press (University of New Orleans Press)
UNO Press combines academic publishing with a commitment to creative expression.
- Known for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry titles.
- Actively supports emerging and experimental writers.
- Provides an important venue for regional and international voices.
9. Acadian House Publishing
A Lafayette-based publisher specializing in books with Louisiana flair.
- Covers topics like Cajun history, biographies, and lifestyle.
- Particularly recognized for regional cookbooks.
- Works closely with local authors to showcase community culture.
10. Moon City Press (Louisiana Branch)
Though connected to a larger network, the Louisiana branch focuses on Southern literary traditions.
- Primarily publishes fiction and poetry.
- Encourages literary experimentation while honoring classic traditions.
- Known for nurturing emerging voices in the region.
11. New Orleans Publishing Group
This independent publishing outfit supports a wide range of genres.
- Produces novels, biographies, and local-interest nonfiction.
- Emphasizes professional editorial standards.
- Provides opportunities for both established and self-publishing authors.
12. Garden District Book Publishing
As part of the cultural heart of New Orleans, Garden District Publishing reflects the city’s creative pulse.
- Focus on New Orleans history, lifestyle, and fiction.
- Encourages works from local authors and artists.
- Publishes visually appealing titles, often with strong design elements.
13. Loyola University New Orleans Press
An academic press supporting both research and cultural preservation.
- Publishes works on theology, philosophy, and Louisiana studies.
- Combines scholarly output with regional interest.
- Helps bridge the academic and general readership markets.
14. Big Easy Publishing
An independent publisher capturing the lively spirit of New Orleans.
- Publishes local fiction, poetry, and nonfiction.
- Works with musicians, artists, and storytellers to create crossover works.
- Known for creative approaches to publishing and design.
15. Bayou Road Publishing
Dedicated to nurturing Louisiana’s literary voice.
- Publishes regional poetry, cultural history, and fiction.
- Supports both emerging and established authors.
- Strong focus on community-driven projects.
16. Rougarou Press
This press reflects Louisiana’s folklore and mythical traditions.
- Publishes fiction, essays, and poetry with a folkloric twist.
- Encourages experimental writing tied to Louisiana identity.
- Associated with Nicholls State University literary initiatives.
17. Dogfish Press
An independent press with a grassroots spirit.
- Publishes chapbooks, poetry, and experimental literature.
- Connects with Louisiana’s spoken word and slam poetry communities.
- Promotes voices that challenge traditional publishing structures.
18. Fleur de Lis Press
Named after Louisiana’s iconic symbol, this press emphasizes Southern themes.
- Publishes fiction, nonfiction, and memoirs.
- Known for titles exploring Louisiana heritage and culture.
- Offers editorial and publishing services for new writers.
19. Crescent City Publishing
A New Orleans-based press with a diverse catalog.
- Focus on regional nonfiction, travel, and cultural guides.
- Strong interest in preserving stories of the Crescent City.
- Works with both academic and popular readerships.
20. Cajun Coast Publishing
Specializing in Cajun culture and history, this publisher highlights Louisiana’s unique traditions.
- Known for cookbooks, travel guides, and folklore.
- Promotes storytelling tied to food, music, and dance.
- Plays a role in cultural preservation through publishing.
21. River Road Press
A small independent press based in New Orleans.
- Publishes children’s books, memoirs, and history titles.
- Strong local and regional emphasis.
- Works closely with authors to develop tailored projects.
22. Magnolia Press
This press highlights works tied to Southern identity.
- Fiction and nonfiction titles with a Louisiana influence.
- Appeals to both local and national audiences.
- Encourages authors to preserve regional traditions.
23. Atchafalaya Press
Named after the famous Louisiana basin, this press reflects the landscape in its publishing.
- Focus on nature writing, regional studies, and memoirs.
- Known for its environmental and cultural themes.
- Appeals to readers interested in Louisiana’s outdoors.
24. Baton Rouge Press
A publisher catering to the state’s capital city and beyond.
- Works include academic, literary, and general-interest books.
- Engages with Baton Rouge writers and institutions.
- Expands Louisiana literature to national markets.
25. Lake Pontchartrain Press
This independent press reflects Louisiana’s natural and cultural resources.
- Focus on environmental nonfiction and regional fiction.
- Promotes sustainability through storytelling.
- Highlights local folklore and traditions.
26. St. Charles Avenue Publishing
Located in the heart of New Orleans, this press reflects urban literary life.
- Publishes novels, poetry, and cultural essays.
- Works often inspired by the rhythm and vibrancy of the city.
- Known for high design and production quality.
27. Red Stick Press
Based in Baton Rouge, Red Stick Press emphasizes local talent.
- Publishes poetry, short fiction, and creative nonfiction.
- Supports writers’ workshops and literary events.
- Aims to grow Baton Rouge’s literary identity.
28. Delta South Publishing
Focused on the Mississippi Delta region and its literary output.
- Publishes fiction and nonfiction tied to Southern culture.
- Recognized for works that blend folklore with modern themes.
- Aims to create bridges between Louisiana and neighboring states.
29. Swamp Lily Press
An independent press reflecting Louisiana’s bayou culture.
- Publishes children’s books, poetry, and folklore.
- Works often draw inspiration from Louisiana’s wildlife and wetlands.
- Supports community-based publishing initiatives.
30. French Quarter Press
Deeply tied to New Orleans’ cultural epicenter.
- Focus on history, art, and fiction inspired by the French Quarter.
- Publishes both local authors and broader Southern voices.
- Produces visually rich and culturally vibrant titles.
31. Acadiana House Press
A Lafayette-based press that emphasizes Cajun heritage.
- Publishes cookbooks, memoirs, and regional histories.
- Strong focus on local voices and bilingual (French-English) works.
- Known for its role in documenting Louisiana culture.
32. Bayou Vista Press
Small but influential, this press serves regional audiences.
- Publishes fiction and nonfiction centered on Louisiana landscapes.
- Works with emerging writers to produce accessible titles.
- Engages closely with grassroots literary circles.
33. Live Oak Press
Reflecting Louisiana’s natural symbols, this press focuses on culture and history.
- Publishes historical fiction, biographies, and cultural studies.
- Titles often explore the state’s unique flora and fauna.
- Supports environmentally conscious writing.
34. Iberia Parish Publishing
Dedicated to the southwestern region of Louisiana.
- Works on local history, memoirs, and cultural studies.
- Supports writers from the Iberia Parish community.
- Focused on preserving regional traditions in book form.
35. Crescent Moon Publishing
An independent publisher with creative leanings.
- Focus on poetry, experimental fiction, and spirituality.
- Draws inspiration from Louisiana’s mysticism.
- Encourages diverse and emerging voices.
36. Capital City Press
Baton Rouge’s publishing voice for both fiction and nonfiction.
- Publishes regional interest titles and general literature.
- Provides editing and publishing support for new authors.
- Plays a role in shaping Baton Rouge’s growing literary scene.
37. New South Publishing
Committed to the modern South, including Louisiana.
- Publishes fiction, nonfiction, and cultural analysis.
- Emphasis on contemporary issues and voices.
- Bridges Southern tradition with modern perspectives.
38. Gator House Press
A press reflecting Louisiana’s wildlife and natural identity.
- Publishes children’s books and folklore-inspired stories.
- Focused on environmental themes.
- Known for vibrant illustrations and design.
39. Storyville Press
Named after New Orleans’ historic district, Storyville Press emphasizes creativity.
- Publishes fiction, essays, and cultural studies.
- Focus on urban Louisiana life and music culture.
- Works often explore themes of resilience and community.
40. Cypress Grove Press
Independent press celebrating Louisiana landscapes.
- Publishes poetry, memoirs, and nonfiction.
- Known for eco-literature and regional history.
- Encourages writers with environmental awareness.
41. Vieux Carré Press
A French Quarter-based press focusing on New Orleans identity.
- Publishes art books, travel guides, and fiction.
- Strong cultural orientation.
- Known for high-quality visuals and layouts.
42. Parish Publishing House
Focused on Louisiana parishes and their heritage.
- Publishes local histories, memoirs, and community books.
- Works closely with local historical societies.
- Documents regional life in detail.
43. Swamp Song Press
An experimental independent press.
- Focus on poetry, fiction, and hybrid genres.
- Draws from Louisiana folklore and music.
- Promotes creative risk-taking.
44. Port City Press
Located in Shreveport, reflecting the literary voice of northern Louisiana.
- Publishes regional histories and memoirs.
- Supports emerging writers in Shreveport.
- Expands the state’s literary diversity beyond New Orleans.
45. Creole Press
Dedicated to preserving Creole culture in Louisiana.
- Publishes bilingual and cultural studies books.
- Includes cookbooks, memoirs, and language guides.
- Advocates for cultural preservation.
46. Baton Rouge Literary Press
A press rooted in Baton Rouge’s academic and literary communities.
- Publishes poetry, fiction, and nonfiction.
- Associated with writing workshops and local events.
- Encourages innovation in Louisiana writing.
47. Cajun Country Publishing
Highlights the lifestyle and folklore of Cajun Louisiana.
- Focus on travel guides, folklore, and cookbooks.
- Strong visual presentation of Louisiana life.
- Appeals to both locals and tourists.
48. Crescent Light Publishing
Independent press with a diverse catalog.
- Publishes memoirs, children’s books, and fiction.
- Emphasis on uplifting and inspiring works.
- Supports both local and national authors.
49. North Louisiana Press
Reflects the literary contributions of Louisiana’s northern parishes.
- Publishes regional histories and cultural studies.
- Strong ties to community-based projects.
- Expands the state’s publishing reach.
50. Blue Bayou Press
Creative press celebrating Louisiana’s waterways.
- Publishes poetry, fiction, and memoirs.
- Strong ties to Louisiana folklore.
- Emphasizes environmental storytelling.
51. Delta Breeze Publishing
Independent press capturing the voices of the Mississippi Delta.
- Publishes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
- Explores Southern identity and resilience.
- Known for fostering emerging writers.
52. New Orleans Creative Press
A hub for local writers and artists.
- Publishes interdisciplinary works blending art and literature.
- Encourages cultural experimentation.
- Rooted in New Orleans’ creative energy.
53. Bayou Star Publishing
Independent press working across genres.
- Publishes novels, biographies, and poetry.
- Strong focus on local storytelling.
- Appeals to both regional and national readers.
54. Magnolia State Press
While regional in scope, this press includes Louisiana-focused works.
- Publishes academic and general-interest books.
- Works emphasize Southern identity.
- Bridges Mississippi and Louisiana cultural traditions.
55. Delta Bay Press
Concluding the list, Delta Bay Press represents Louisiana’s grassroots publishing spirit.
- Publishes community-based projects and memoirs.
- Highlights underrepresented voices.
- Reflects the state’s diverse cultural fabric.
How to Choose the Right Publisher in Louisiana
Choosing the right publisher depends on your goals as an author. Louisiana offers academic presses for scholarly works, independent presses for regional stories, and hybrid publishers for those who want a more hands-on approach.
- Academic authors should consider LSU Press, UNO Press, or Loyola University Press.
- Memoir and cultural writers may connect better with presses like Bayou Press, Acadian House Publishing, or Garden District Book Publishing.
- Emerging fiction writers should look at Dogfish Press, Storyville Press, or Bayou Road Publishing.
- Authors seeking professional services may benefit from Barnett Ghostwriting’s comprehensive approach.
Cost Expectations for Publishing in Louisiana
Publishing costs vary widely depending on the type of press and services.
Type of Publisher | Average Cost (USD) | Notes |
University Press | $0–$1,000 | Typically no author fee, but selective acceptance. |
Independent Press | $500–$5,000 | Covers editing, design, and distribution support. |
Hybrid Publisher | $2,500–$12,000 | Author invests in professional publishing services. |
Self-Publishing (with services) | $1,000–$7,500 | Editing, design, and marketing costs depend on package. |
Conclusion
Louisiana remains one of the most vibrant states for publishing in 2025. From the historic halls of LSU Press to independent voices in New Orleans, the state offers opportunities for every type of author. Whether you are writing a Cajun cookbook, an academic history, or a novel inspired by the French Quarter, Louisiana’s publishers ensure your story finds the right audience.