Top 75 Book Publishing Companies in Washington DC 2025

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:

Ghostwriting support for authors who want to bring ideas to life.
Book editing and design tailored to professional publishing standards.
Publishing packages that guide authors from manuscript to marketplace.
Marketing assistance for distribution, branding, and readership growth.

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.