Introduction
Maryland has long been known for its proximity to Washington, D.C., its thriving academic institutions, and its growing community of creative voices. While it doesn’t have the sheer publishing scale of New York or Boston, Maryland has carved out a niche with presses that are deeply connected to education, regional culture, and literary innovation.
This guide brings together 28 book publishing companies in Maryland that every author should know about in 2025. Each press offers something unique, whether you’re an academic writing groundbreaking research, a novelist searching for a boutique publisher, or a nonfiction author looking for credibility in the market.
Let’s dive into the list of publishers shaping Maryland’s literary scene this year.
The 28 Must-See Book Publishing Companies in Maryland (2025 List)
1. Ghostwriting LLC
Ghostwriting LLC is a full-service publishing and writing company that helps authors bring their stories from idea to finished book. Based in Maryland, the firm specializes in ghostwriting, editing, design, and distribution services, making it an ideal partner for both new and experienced writers. With a team that works across genres — from memoirs and fiction to business and self-help — Ghostwriting LLC offers professional guidance every step of the way.
Best For: Authors looking for end-to-end publishing support, from manuscript development to market-ready books.
2. Loyola University Maryland Press
Loyola University Maryland Press emphasizes works tied to education, theology, and social studies. The press often collaborates with faculty and scholars to bring forward impactful publications that align with Jesuit values of service, reflection, and intellectual rigor. Their catalog balances academic strength with accessibility for a wider audience.
Best For: Authors in theology, philosophy, and educational studies seeking an audience within faith-based academia
3. Maryland Historical Society Press
The Maryland Historical Society Press preserves and promotes the state’s rich history through carefully curated publications. It produces books on Maryland’s culture, people, and historical landmarks. Many of its titles become essential references for historians and educators. This press is a cornerstone for those wanting to engage with the state’s unique heritage while keeping local stories alive for future generations.
Best For: Historians, regional authors, and nonfiction writers exploring Maryland’s heritage.
4. Apprentice House Press
Apprentice House Press, run by students at Loyola University Maryland, is the only entirely student-managed publishing house in the U.S. It offers a range of titles, including fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, blending creativity with professional publishing experience. Its mission is twofold: to provide real-world training to students and to publish diverse, engaging voices.
Best For: Emerging authors looking for innovative, student-driven publishing with fresh perspectives.
5. Institute of Nautical Archaeology Press (Maryland Division)
This specialized press produces works dedicated to maritime history and nautical archaeology. Its Maryland division publishes books that connect the Chesapeake Bay’s naval past with broader maritime scholarship. By blending rigorous research with accessible writing, the press makes naval history engaging for both scholars and general readers.
Best For: Authors of history and maritime research, particularly related to naval traditions and archaeology.
6. National Library of Poetry (formerly based in Owings Mills)
The National Library of Poetry, though controversial in the 1990s, played a role in promoting poetry collections from emerging voices. It published anthologies featuring thousands of poets worldwide. While its commercial model is debated, it nonetheless created a publishing pathway for poets seeking visibility. Its history still resonates with many who saw their work in print for the first time.
Best For: Poets looking for anthology-style publication and first-time exposure.
7. Schiffer Publishing (Maryland office)
Schiffer Publishing has a regional branch in Maryland focusing on military history, aviation, and regional culture. Known for high-quality illustrated books, it appeals to readers who enjoy detailed and well-produced reference works. The Maryland office maintains a special interest in Chesapeake Bay traditions, maritime culture, and collectibles.
Best For: Authors of military history, maritime studies, and visually rich nonfiction
8. AmErica House Publishing
AmErica House Publishing is a Maryland-based hybrid publisher offering authors a mix of traditional and self-publishing services. They focus on fiction, memoir, and poetry while providing editorial and design support to ensure professional standards. Their flexible model helps authors retain more creative control while still benefiting from distribution networks.
Best For: Independent authors seeking hybrid publishing support for fiction and memoirs.
9. Maryland Writers’ Association Press
As part of the Maryland Writers’ Association, this press highlights works from members of the state’s vibrant literary community. It publishes anthologies, short stories, and themed collections that showcase the breadth of Maryland’s creative voices. The association press is well connected to local literary events and provides new authors an accessible entry point into publishing.
Best For: Local writers, poets, and short story authors in Maryland’s literary network.
10. Ibidem Press (Maryland office, distributed by Columbia University Press)
Ibidem Press specializes in humanities and social sciences. With an office in Maryland and distribution through Columbia University Press, it brings academic works to a global readership. Titles often focus on political science, history, and cultural studies. It maintains high editorial standards and appeals to scholars who want their work to resonate internationally.
Best For: Academics and researchers in the humanities and social sciences.
11. Bancroft Press
Bancroft Press, based in Baltimore, is an independent trade publisher known for quality over quantity. They release a handful of titles annually, including fiction, nonfiction, and memoir. The press prides itself on editorial rigor and strong design, ensuring each book gets personal attention. Bancroft has launched award-winning titles and is highly selective with its authors.
Best For: Authors of literary fiction and high-quality nonfiction seeking personalized support.
12. Maryland State Poetry Society Press
Dedicated to poetry, this small press publishes collections from members of the Maryland State Poetry Society. It emphasizes lyrical, accessible, and regional poetry, often highlighting themes tied to Maryland’s landscapes and communities. Its anthologies bring together established poets and new voices alike, fostering connection within the poetry community.
Best For: Poets looking to publish regionally influenced or lyrical collections.
13. Georgetown University Press (regional ties in Maryland)
Though based in D.C., Georgetown University Press maintains strong publishing ties to Maryland through partnerships and authors. It publishes academic works in international affairs, languages, and religious studies. Its global reputation makes it a respected outlet for scholarly voices in the humanities and policy studies.
Best For: Academics and nonfiction authors focused on religion, languages, and international studies.
14. Capital Books (regional office in Maryland)
Capital Books is a mid-sized publisher with strong ties to the D.C.–Maryland–Virginia area. It publishes a mix of fiction and nonfiction, with a particular emphasis on books that spark conversation. Their catalog includes memoirs, contemporary novels, and political nonfiction. The Maryland branch contributes to local distribution and editorial projects.
Best For: Authors of memoir, contemporary fiction, and sociopolitical nonfiction.
15. Literary House Press (Washington College, Chestertown)
Literary House Press, part of Washington College, publishes poetry, chapbooks, and literary works. It focuses on emerging voices and provides students and faculty with opportunities to participate in publishing. Its catalog emphasizes creative innovation and fresh, experimental styles. Literary House Press is a cornerstone of Maryland’s literary scene, particularly for poetry enthusiasts.
Best For: Emerging poets and experimental literary writers
16. Heritage Books
Heritage Books, located in Maryland, is one of the largest publishers of genealogical research materials in the U.S. Its titles cover family histories, historical records, and guides for genealogists. The press appeals to both professional researchers and hobbyists, offering meticulously compiled works.
Best For: Genealogists, historians, and authors of family history research.
17. Day Eight Press (regional collaborations in Maryland)
Day Eight Press publishes poetry, plays, and essays with a focus on supporting the arts in the mid-Atlantic region. While headquartered in D.C., many of its authors and collaborators are from Maryland. The press values literary experimentation and voices that intersect with the performing arts.
Best For: Poets, playwrights, and essayists exploring innovative themes.
18. CityLit Press
CityLit Press is part of the CityLit Project in Baltimore, which champions emerging voices in literature. The press publishes anthologies, poetry collections, and fiction with a strong community-centered mission. It highlights diverse authors and fosters connections through local festivals and workshops. CityLit Press is deeply tied to Baltimore’s creative energy.
Best For: Emerging authors and poets seeking publication tied to community engagement.
19. New Academia Publishing (Maryland branch)
New Academia Publishing emphasizes academic works in political science, philosophy, and history. Their Maryland branch plays a role in editing and distributing titles to academic libraries and institutions. The press provides opportunities for scholars to reach an international readership through partnerships with libraries and online platforms.
Best For: Academics in political science, philosophy, and cultural studies.
20. Ivy Books (Maryland presence)
Ivy Books, with regional distribution in Maryland, publishes contemporary fiction and nonfiction. Their titles lean toward thought-provoking narratives, often with strong character-driven stories. They are known for giving authors hands-on attention during editing and design, which makes the publishing experience more personal.
Best For: Fiction and nonfiction authors looking for a supportive publishing partner.
21. Amana Publications
Amana Publications, based in Beltsville, Maryland, specializes in Islamic literature, including religious texts, academic studies, and contemporary works exploring Muslim life. With a global readership, Amana is respected for producing authoritative and accessible works. Their titles range from translations of classical texts to modern explorations of spirituality.
Best For: Authors in Islamic studies, religious scholarship, and spiritual writing.
22. Writers’ Bloc Press (Maryland branch)
Writers’ Bloc Press focuses on anthologies and collaborative projects, offering new writers opportunities to be published alongside peers. Their Maryland branch connects with local writing groups and highlights regional themes. The press emphasizes inclusivity and building communities through collective publishing.
Best For: New and emerging writers contributing to anthologies and themed collections.
23. Dryad Press
Dryad Press, based in Maryland, is dedicated to publishing poetry collections that explore cultural, historical, and Jewish themes. It has a reputation for nurturing poets whose work blends tradition with contemporary voice. Dryad is respected for its intimate editorial approach and focus on lyrical depth.
Best For: Poets exploring cultural identity, history, and Jewish heritage.
24. Three Conditions Press
Three Conditions Press publishes works with a focus on disability, accessibility, and social justice. Based in Maryland, it champions marginalized voices and produces books that challenge norms while sparking empathy and awareness. Its catalog includes memoir, nonfiction, and poetry.
Best For: Writers exploring disability, identity, and social justice themes.
25. Black Classic Press
Black Classic Press, based in Baltimore, republishes and preserves works by and about people of African descent. It has built a legacy since the 1970s of reintroducing classic texts that might otherwise be lost. The press also publishes new works that align with its mission of cultural preservation and empowerment.
Best For: Authors focusing on African American history, culture, and heritage.
26. Maryland Poetry Review Press
This press grew out of the Maryland Poetry Review journal and publishes chapbooks, anthologies, and poetry collections. It emphasizes local voices and experimental forms, connecting Maryland’s vibrant poetry community with wider audiences. It continues to nurture poets at various stages of their careers.
Best For: Poets in Maryland seeking chapbook or anthology publication.
27. NAP Books (New Academia Partnerships)
NAP Books is a collaborative publishing platform connecting Maryland with international academic publishers. It focuses on cross-disciplinary research and innovative works in the humanities and sciences. Their titles often reflect global perspectives and collaborations between scholars.
Best For: Academics aiming for international reach in multi-disciplinary research.
28. Woodhall Press (Maryland presence)
Woodhall Press, while nationally recognized, has a distribution arm in Maryland. It publishes memoirs, nonfiction, and literary fiction with an emphasis on compelling personal stories. Its reputation for well-edited, thought-provoking titles makes it a favorite among readers seeking books that combine authenticity with literary quality.
Best For: Memoirists and literary fiction authors aiming for polished, impactful publications.
Publishing Costs in Maryland: What Writers Should Expect (≈150 words + Table)
Publishing in Maryland varies depending on whether authors choose self-publishing, hybrid, or traditional routes. Costs are comparable to national averages, though certain services in Baltimore and university-affiliated presses may lean higher due to design and editorial standards.
| Publishing Path | Estimated Cost Range | Best For |
| Self-Publishing | $2,000 – $8,000 | Independent authors who want speed, control, and higher royalties |
| Hybrid Publishing | $4,500 – $12,000 | Writers who need professional editing, design, and broader distribution |
| Traditional Publishing | $0 upfront (royalty-based) | Authors focused on prestige, academic impact, or literary recognition |
Maryland’s vibrant mix of presses ensures that, whether you’re a poet, academic, or memoirist, you’ll find a publishing path that fits your goals and budget.
Conclusion
Maryland’s publishing ecosystem in 2025 shows just how dynamic the state has become for writers. From powerhouse institutions like Johns Hopkins University Press to community-driven collectives like CityLit Press, the state balances prestige with accessibility. Authors can pursue global reach, regional identity, or niche subjects, all within a supportive network.
For writers seeking more than just a book deal — whether it’s cultural impact, academic credibility, or community connection — Maryland offers it all. As publishing continues to evolve, Maryland stands as a state where tradition, diversity, and innovation converge.
