Introduction
Iowa has long been celebrated as a literary hub, thanks in part to its deep-rooted traditions in creative writing and publishing.
From the University of Iowa’s world-renowned Writers’ Workshop to its many independent and regional presses, the state continues to shape voices that reach readers nationwide. In 2025, Iowa remains an attractive destination for authors who want to publish meaningful work with publishers that value both creativity and authenticity.
The following list highlights 29 trusted companies across the state that are ready to partner with authors in bringing their books to life.
Partner with 29 Premier Book Publishing Companies in Iowa
1. Ghostwriting LLC
Ghostwriting LLC helps authors at every stage of their publishing journey, from ghostwriting and editing to final publication. Their team specializes in tailoring manuscripts to meet market standards while preserving the author’s unique voice.
With experience in fiction, memoirs, business, and academic works, Ghostwriting LLC provides broad opportunities for writers of all backgrounds. In 2025, the company continues to stand out as a professional partner that ensures polished results and smooth publishing experiences.
2. University of Iowa Press
Founded in 1969, the University of Iowa Press is a cornerstone of academic and literary publishing. It is known for its scholarly works, regional histories, and contributions to literature through award-winning poetry and nonfiction.
Authors seeking a respected platform for serious projects will find this press ideal. With its strong ties to the state’s literary heritage, the University of Iowa Press continues to uphold high standards and remains a premier option for authors in 2025.
3. Ice Cube Press
Ice Cube Press, based in North Liberty, focuses on publishing books that celebrate the Midwest and its people. Their catalog includes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that reflect the landscapes and experiences of the region.
Authors who value thoughtful storytelling rooted in place will find a receptive home here. Ice Cube Press is dedicated to producing works that spark conversation and appreciation for the Midwest, making it an excellent choice for authors in 2025.
4. Midwest Writing Center Press
The Midwest Writing Center Press supports authors across the region with publishing opportunities that emphasize creativity and originality. Based in Davenport, it publishes poetry, fiction, and nonfiction from both emerging and established voices.
Authors who work with this press can expect a supportive environment and a focus on community. In 2025, the Midwest Writing Center Press continues to foster connections between writers and readers while promoting diverse perspectives in the literary landscape.
5. Penfield Books
Penfield Books, located in Iowa City, is well-known for its specialty in cultural heritage and historical publications. The press has produced titles on ethnic traditions, folklore, and biographies that capture rich cultural narratives. Authors with projects that preserve history and celebrate heritage will find Penfield an ideal partner.
With decades of experience, Penfield Books continues to be a respected name for quality nonfiction and remains a reliable option for writers entering the publishing world in 2025.
6. North Liberty Press
North Liberty Press provides opportunities for both fiction and nonfiction authors, with a focus on regional stories and contemporary themes. The press supports authors through the editing, design, and distribution process, ensuring professional presentation.
Writers who want a press that values close collaboration will appreciate North Liberty’s personalized approach. As Iowa’s publishing landscape grows in 2025, North Liberty Press stands out for its dedication to local voices and meaningful, reader-focused storytelling.
7. Cedar Falls Publishing
Cedar Falls Publishing is a community-based press that works with authors to produce titles across genres, including children’s books, memoirs, and regional fiction. The press is known for its approachable style and attention to detail, making it a strong choice for first-time authors.
Writers who want to share personal stories or family histories will find Cedar Falls Publishing especially welcoming. In 2025, it remains a reliable press that values storytelling and supports authors throughout the publishing process.
8. Iowa Heritage Press
Iowa Heritage Press is dedicated to preserving the history, culture, and traditions of Iowa through carefully curated publications. Its catalog includes biographies, regional histories, and cultural explorations that resonate with local readers. Authors who focus on nonfiction projects rooted in heritage will find this press an excellent fit.
With its commitment to historical accuracy and storytelling, Iowa Heritage Press continues to be a valuable resource for authors who wish to contribute to preserving Iowa’s legacy in 2025.
9. Prairie Wind Publishing (Iowa Division)
Prairie Wind Publishing extends its presence in Iowa with a division focused on regional and contemporary works. The press publishes fiction, memoirs, and cultural studies that capture the essence of Midwest living. Authors can expect professional editing and design services that elevate their manuscripts.
Prairie Wind Publishing is a solid option for writers who want to balance creative freedom with professional support. In 2025, it continues to offer opportunities for authors eager to share authentic stories.
10. River Junction Press
River Junction Press, based in Iowa City, specializes in historical and cultural nonfiction. Their titles often explore the lives of people, communities, and events that have shaped the Midwest.
Authors with manuscripts rooted in history or regional identity will find this press particularly fitting. River Junction Press is dedicated to ensuring works are both accessible and insightful, making it an excellent choice for authors in 2025 who want to preserve and share meaningful narratives.
11. Ice Cube Press (North Liberty)
Ice Cube Press is a gem for Midwestern writers, publishing books that reflect the culture, history, and natural environment of the region. With a strong catalog of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, this press values authentic voices that resonate with readers on a personal level.
Their work often highlights environmental themes, regional heritage, and thought-provoking storytelling. Writers looking to connect with readers who appreciate both literary quality and Midwestern roots will find Ice Cube Press a welcoming partner.
12. East Hall Press (Dubuque)
East Hall Press is associated with Clarke University and focuses on creative and scholarly works. The press highlights unique projects, from poetry to cultural studies, giving both students and independent writers a chance to shine.
Known for its approachable submission process, East Hall Press creates opportunities for first-time authors as well as experienced ones. Writers who want to explore both academic and artistic storytelling will find this press an encouraging space to share their work.
13. The Printer’s Ball Press (Des Moines)
The Printer’s Ball Press celebrates independent voices with its eclectic publishing approach. Based in Des Moines, this small press focuses on poetry, short fiction, and experimental works. They’re passionate about showcasing writers who push creative boundaries and craft stories that feel both fresh and daring.
For Iowa authors who want to publish beyond the conventional, The Printer’s Ball Press provides a supportive environment to explore bold literary visions while reaching a niche audience.
14. Penfield Books (Iowa City)
Penfield Books has been publishing since the 1970s and is known for its culturally rich catalog. The press emphasizes heritage themes, particularly Scandinavian and European traditions, making it unique among Iowa publishers.
Their works include nonfiction, children’s books, and cultural histories that preserve heritage stories. Writers interested in folklore, cultural preservation, and history will find Penfield Books to be an ideal home. This press blends educational value with storytelling that appeals across generations.
15. Finishing Line Press (Georgetown)
Finishing Line Press is widely recognized for its dedication to poetry and chapbooks. With a national reach, this Iowa-based press has built a strong reputation for supporting emerging and established poets alike. They focus on short poetry collections and provide authors with solid marketing support.
For poets, especially those who want to begin their publishing journey with a smaller collection, Finishing Line Press offers both credibility and exposure within the poetry community.
16. Standing Stone Books (Cedar Rapids)
Standing Stone Books caters to authors writing fiction, memoirs, and spiritually themed works. Based in Cedar Rapids, this press supports writers who want to inspire, educate, or entertain with meaningful content. They take a personalized approach, often guiding authors through editing and marketing processes.
Writers looking for a supportive publishing experience with attention to detail will find Standing Stone Books a good fit. Their dedication to uplifting voices sets them apart in the Iowa publishing scene.
17. MindBridge Press (Des Moines)
MindBridge Press, tied to the MindBridge Foundation, focuses on speculative fiction, including science fiction, fantasy, and related genres. They support both local and regional authors, creating opportunities for writers with imaginative works.
Known for their involvement in conventions and fan events, MindBridge Press connects authors with genre enthusiasts directly. For Iowa writers who dream of contributing to speculative literature, this press provides a fantastic platform to bring their worlds to life and reach engaged readers.
18. Prairie Lights Press (Iowa City)
Connected with the famous Prairie Lights Bookstore, Prairie Lights Press supports literary projects with strong cultural and artistic value. While selective, the press is committed to publishing works that reflect Iowa’s intellectual and literary spirit. They emphasize nonfiction, poetry, and literary fiction.
Authors published here often gain credibility thanks to the bookstore’s national reputation. Prairie Lights Press is best suited for writers producing high-quality, thoughtful manuscripts with both regional and universal resonance.
19. Rootstock Publishing (Iowa City)
Rootstock Publishing takes a collaborative approach to bringing manuscripts to market, often working closely with authors throughout editing, design, and promotion. While they publish across genres, their focus is on books that highlight purpose-driven and meaningful themes.
Writers who want to tell impactful stories—whether fiction, memoir, or nonfiction—can benefit from Rootstock’s supportive, partnership-style publishing process. Their dedication to amplifying important voices makes them a respected choice for Iowa authors.
20. Gasher Press (Des Moines)
Gasher Press is a nonprofit, community-driven publishing house that supports emerging and underrepresented voices. They focus on poetry, hybrid works, and experimental forms, making them ideal for authors who wish to challenge traditional storytelling.
Gasher Press also publishes chapbooks and literary journals, offering multiple pathways for writers to share their work. For those who want to join a press that values creativity, inclusivity, and literary experimentation, Gasher Press is an excellent platform.
21. North Liberty Publishing (North Liberty)
North Liberty Publishing specializes in helping local writers publish both fiction and nonfiction. They emphasize accessibility, offering guidance to authors who may be publishing for the first time. Their catalog spans genres, from romance and mystery to memoirs and self-help.
This approachable publishing company is well-suited for Iowa writers who want a straightforward, supportive experience in bringing their manuscripts to market without compromising quality.
22. Timberline Press (Cedar Falls)
Timberline Press is a small press that thrives on personal attention and high-quality publishing standards. Their focus is on poetry, essays, and short story collections. With a reputation for producing beautifully designed books, Timberline Press appeals to writers who value both aesthetics and literary merit.
Authors who want a press that treats every manuscript with care will find Timberline to be an excellent partner, particularly in Iowa’s tight-knit literary community.
23. Morning Glory Press (Des Moines)
Morning Glory Press publishes works centered on family, education, and personal growth. Their books often include children’s literature, educational materials, and uplifting nonfiction. The press’s mission is to create stories that resonate with families and readers of all ages.
Writers with wholesome and meaningful content will find Morning Glory Press to be a good fit. Their reputation for supporting authors with thoughtful editing and design makes them a dependable choice.
24. Twin Cities Review Press (Davenport)
Though small, Twin Cities Review Press has made a name for itself by publishing contemporary fiction, poetry, and memoirs. They encourage bold storytelling and new perspectives.
This press welcomes authors who want to explore both regional and global themes in their work. Writers who seek a platform that embraces fresh, diverse voices will find Twin Cities Review Press to be a collaborative and open-minded publisher with a growing influence in Iowa.
25. Oak Lane Press (Iowa City)
Oak Lane Press focuses on academic, historical, and literary works. With strong ties to the university community, they provide a scholarly yet approachable platform for authors. Their books often reflect Iowa’s cultural and academic traditions.
Writers producing carefully researched nonfiction, history, or literary studies will find Oak Lane Press to be an ideal home. The press’s attention to intellectual depth makes them especially appealing for authors with academic backgrounds.
26. Spirit Lake Publishing (Spirit Lake)
Spirit Lake Publishing emphasizes stories that highlight the beauty of small-town life, Midwestern values, and personal experiences. They publish memoirs, local histories, and inspirational nonfiction. The press caters to writers who want to preserve stories of community, family, and personal growth.
With a regional focus, Spirit Lake Publishing provides Iowa authors with an outlet for storytelling that reflects their roots and creates connections with readers who appreciate heartfelt narratives.
27. Storybook Press (Iowa City)
Storybook Press specializes in children’s books that inspire imagination and creativity. Based in Iowa City, they work with authors who create meaningful stories for young readers. The press values books that encourage learning, kindness, and curiosity.
Writers with manuscripts for children will find Storybook Press an excellent choice, as they not only publish but also emphasize design and illustration, helping authors bring vibrant, engaging books to life.
28. Flatwater Free Press Books (Davenport)
Flatwater Free Press Books highlights investigative and narrative nonfiction, focusing on impactful storytelling. They support authors who want to dive deep into social, cultural, or environmental issues.
With a mission to publish works that matter, this press is a strong partner for nonfiction writers in Iowa. Their approach blends journalistic integrity with literary style, making them especially attractive for authors who want their books to drive conversation and awareness.
29. Black Cat Press (Cedar Rapids)
Black Cat Press is a boutique publisher known for its passion for artistic and literary works. They publish across genres, with a particular interest in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction.
The press takes pride in working closely with authors to craft high-quality books with distinctive voices. Writers who want a press that values individuality and creativity will find Black Cat Press a strong ally in bringing their projects to print.
How Much Does It Cost to Publish a Book in Iowa?
Publishing costs in Iowa can vary widely depending on whether you work with a traditional press, a small independent publisher, or pursue self-publishing. To give you an idea of the typical expenses, here’s a breakdown:
- Editing – $500 to $2,500 depending on length and type of editing (developmental, copyediting, or proofreading).
- Cover Design – $300 to $1,000 for professional artwork and layout.
- Interior Formatting – $200 to $800, depending on complexity and design needs.
- Printing Costs – $2 to $6 per book for small print runs; bulk orders lower the per-unit price.
- ISBN and Distribution – Around $125 for an ISBN; distribution fees vary by platform.
- Marketing and Promotion – $500 to $5,000, depending on whether you handle outreach yourself or hire professionals.
While traditional publishers in Iowa often cover many of these costs, self-published authors should budget carefully. On average, publishing independently in Iowa might cost anywhere between $2,000 to $7,000, depending on services chosen and the author’s goals.
Conclusion
Iowa’s publishing community is as diverse and welcoming as its cultural roots. From university-affiliated presses and poetry publishers to independent imprints supporting regional stories, writers here have an abundance of choices.
Whether your manuscript is poetry, history, children’s literature, or speculative fiction, there’s a publisher in Iowa ready to amplify your voice. The supportive environment, combined with Iowa’s strong literary tradition, makes it an ideal place for authors to bring their work into the world.
With careful planning and the right partner, your publishing journey in Iowa can flourish.
