Introduction
Philadelphia has always been a city of stories, and in 2025, it continues to shine as one of America’s literary hubs. With a mix of historic university presses, independent publishers, and innovative imprints, Philadelphia offers a vibrant publishing scene for both first-time and seasoned authors.
For aspiring writers, the city’s publishing houses represent opportunity, credibility, and creative freedom. This list of 27 top publishers highlights the organizations shaping Philadelphia’s literary landscape today.
Whether you write poetry, memoirs, history, or children’s books, these publishers provide the support and expertise to bring your words to life.
27 Best Publishers in Philadelphia
1. Ghostwriting LLC
Founded: 2010
Ghostwriting LLC is a full-service publishing and writing company serving authors across genres. Based in Philadelphia, it provides professional ghostwriting, editing, design, and publishing services. With a focus on high-quality storytelling and market-ready books, Ghostwriting LLC helps authors turn their ideas into polished manuscripts.
Why Choose Them?
- Professional ghostwriting and editing
- End-to-end publishing support
- Strong distribution network
- Trusted globally by authors
2. Temple University Press
Founded: 1969
Temple University Press is a respected academic publisher specializing in humanities, social sciences, and regional studies. It produces scholarly works that contribute to cultural and intellectual discussions both locally and internationally.
Why Choose Them?
- Strong academic reputation
- Wide scholarly distribution
- Focus on urban and social issues
- Ideal for nonfiction and research-based works
3. University of Pennsylvania Press
Founded: 1890
University of Pennsylvania Press is one of the oldest publishers in the U.S., renowned for its high academic standards. It focuses on history, political science, and cultural studies. Its titles are respected worldwide, making it an excellent choice for scholars.
Why Choose Them?
- International scholarly reputation
- Over a century of publishing history
- Broad academic distribution
- Perfect for research-driven authors
4. Running Press
Founded: 1972
Running Press is a Philadelphia-based publisher known for creative, quirky, and pop culture titles. They publish adult, children’s, and gift books, often featuring innovative designs and fun concepts.
Why Choose Them?
- Wide appeal in lifestyle and pop culture
- Strong distribution channels
- Recognized for unique, eye-catching titles
- Great for authors with creative or unconventional projects
5. Quirk Books
Founded: 2002
Quirk Books publishes original, offbeat, and bestselling titles. Known for books like Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, Quirk has a reputation for blending creativity with commercial success.
Why Choose Them?
- Focus on unique and unusual concepts
- History of producing bestsellers
- National and international distribution
- Excellent for fiction and humor writers
6. Camino Books
Founded: 1987
Camino Books specializes in regional nonfiction, history, biography, and culture. Based in Philadelphia, it highlights works tied to Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic region.
Why Choose Them?
- Strong focus on local and regional stories
- Excellent for nonfiction authors
- Good distribution in Mid-Atlantic markets
- Nurtures historical and biographical works
7. Xlibris Publishing (Philadelphia Branch)
Founded: 1997
Xlibris, though global, maintains a strong presence in Philadelphia. It offers self-publishing services for authors looking for control over their work. From editing to marketing, Xlibris provides customizable packages.
Why Choose Them?
- Flexible publishing models
- Author retains creative control
- Wide distribution options
- Suitable for new and experienced writers
8. The Head & The Hand Press
Founded: 2012
An innovative independent press, The Head & The Hand focuses on publishing socially conscious books. They are dedicated to nurturing emerging voices and creative projects that reflect community values.
Why Choose Them?
- Focus on socially impactful stories
- Support for emerging writers
- Community-driven publishing approach
- Great for indie authors seeking creative freedom
9. Paul Dry Books
Founded: 2000
Paul Dry Books publishes thoughtful nonfiction and fiction, often focusing on intellectual and literary quality. They seek works that inspire readers to think deeply about life, art, and history.
Why Choose Them?
- Selective but high literary quality
- Focus on meaningful storytelling
- Strong appeal for intellectual readers
- Great for authors seeking a niche audience
10. Aequitas Books
Founded: 2015
Aequitas Books is a small independent publisher focused on social justice, culture, and human rights. Their mission is to highlight important voices and diverse perspectives.
Why Choose Them?
- Commitment to equity and inclusion
- Strong voice in social issues
- Works well with new authors
- Great for nonfiction and advocacy-focused projects
11. Moonstone Press
Founded: 1981
Moonstone Press began as a literary organization and continues to publish poetry, anthologies, and literature tied to Philadelphia’s creative community.
Why Choose Them?
- Rich literary and poetry focus
- Community-centered publishing
- Opportunities for emerging poets
- Rooted in Philadelphia’s culture
12. Lanternfish Press
Founded: 2014
Lanternfish Press is an indie publisher with a reputation for imaginative, thought-provoking fiction. They value originality and creativity in storytelling.
Why Choose Them?
- Focus on unique literary fiction
- Encourages experimental works
- Open to diverse and new voices
- Perfect for authors with unconventional stories
13. Firefly Press
Founded: 1999
Firefly Press works with children’s and young adult authors. Their focus is on creating stories that inspire imagination and creativity in younger readers.
Why Choose Them?
- Strong focus on children’s literature
- Encourages creativity and fun storytelling
- Appeals to parents, schools, and educators
- Great for first-time children’s authors
14. Christian Faith Publishing (Philadelphia Branch)
Founded: 2012
Christian Faith Publishing supports faith-based authors in producing books aligned with Christian values. They handle editing, design, and distribution.
Why Choose Them?
- Specialization in Christian publishing
- Full-service support for authors
- Wide distribution in faith communities
- Perfect for spiritual writers
15. Westminster John Knox Press (Philadelphia Reach)
Founded: 1838Though headquartered in Kentucky, Westminster John Knox has strong Philadelphia ties through its religious distribution channels. They publish theology, Bible studies, and Christian living titles.
Why Choose Them?
- Longstanding reputation in theology
- Wide distribution network
- Strong editorial support for spiritual works
- Great for religious academics and writers
16. Jewish Publication Society (JPS)
Founded: 1888
The Jewish Publication Society, headquartered in Philadelphia, is one of the oldest nonprofit publishers of Jewish texts in English. It is widely known for its translations of the Hebrew Bible and Jewish cultural works.
Why Choose Them?
- Historic reputation in Jewish publishing
- Specialized in religious and cultural texts
- Nonprofit mission supporting education
- Excellent choice for authors writing on Jewish heritage
17. Fortress Press
Founded: 1961
Based in Philadelphia, Fortress Press is a leader in theological and religious studies publishing. They produce academic works, textbooks, and general Christian interest titles.
Why Choose Them?
- International reputation in theology
- Academic and faith-based publishing expertise
- Strong distribution among seminaries and universities
- Ideal for authors with scholarly or faith-centered manuscripts
18. Chelsea Green Publishing (Philadelphia Office)
Founded: 1984
Chelsea Green has a Philadelphia presence, specializing in sustainable living, environmental issues, and progressive politics. They support books that spark change and inspire action.
Why Choose Them?
- Commitment to sustainability and activism
- Focus on environmental and social justice topics
- Wide distribution across eco-conscious communities
- Perfect for nonfiction authors passionate about change
19. Wild River Books
Founded: 2007
Wild River Books is a boutique publisher based in Philadelphia that emphasizes literary works, memoirs, and cultural narratives. They focus on quality and unique voices.
Why Choose Them?
- Personalized editorial support
- Specializes in memoirs and cultural stories
- Independent and community-oriented
- Great for writers seeking close collaboration
20. PS Books
Founded: 2006
PS Books is a small Philadelphia press publishing fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. They aim to support emerging authors and provide high-quality editing and design.
Why Choose Them?
- Open to multiple genres
- Strong support for new authors
- Quality-focused publishing process
- Great option for local Philadelphia writers
21. Arch Street Press
Founded: 2014
Arch Street Press is a mission-driven publisher promoting social impact and community-based projects. Their catalog includes nonfiction, memoirs, and books focused on leadership.
Why Choose Them?
- Mission-driven and community-focused
- Publishes impactful nonfiction and memoirs
- Encourages socially conscious storytelling
- Ideal for authors with messages of change
22. Grim Reaper Books
Founded: 2010
Grim Reaper Books is an indie publisher specializing in dark fiction, horror, and alternative literature. Their catalog appeals to readers who enjoy unconventional narratives.
Why Choose Them?
- Focus on horror and edgy fiction
- Open to unconventional, experimental voices
- Nurtures niche storytelling styles
- Great for authors in dark or speculative genres
23. Mason Crest (Philadelphia Division)
Founded: 2003
Mason Crest is known for educational publishing, particularly nonfiction titles for schools and libraries. Their books cover history, science, and contemporary issues.
Why Choose Them?
- Strong educational and academic focus
- Excellent distribution to schools and libraries
- Nonfiction specialists in youth markets
- Perfect for authors of educational content
24. New City Community Press
Founded: 2008
New City Community Press publishes books by and about diverse communities, with a special focus on marginalized voices. Based in Philadelphia, they combine education with social activism.
Why Choose Them?
- Supports underrepresented voices
- Community-centered publishing model
- Encourages socially relevant works
- Excellent for authors passionate about inclusivity
25. MASON Press
Founded: 2016
MASON Press is a small independent publisher focusing on contemporary fiction and poetry. Their mission is to provide space for bold, fresh literary voices.
Why Choose Them?
- Dedicated to contemporary writing
- Strong support for emerging authors
- Emphasizes experimental and literary quality
- Great for fiction and poetry writers
26. Ugly Duckling Presse (Philadelphia Branch)
Founded: 1993
Though based in Brooklyn, Ugly Duckling Presse has strong Philadelphia ties and regularly publishes experimental poetry, translation, and hybrid texts. They are well-known for supporting innovative voices.
Why Choose Them?
- Focus on poetry and experimental writing
- Supports translations and hybrid works
- Independent and innovative publishing model
- Perfect for risk-taking literary authors
27. Lantern Books (Philadelphia Network)
Founded: 1999
Lantern Books publishes works on animal rights, spirituality, and social justice. With a Philadelphia network, they reach audiences interested in ethical and compassionate living.
Why Choose Them?
- Specializes in ethical and socially conscious themes
- Focus on spirituality, environment, and activism
- Good distribution in niche communities
- Ideal for authors with purpose-driven projects
Opportunities for First-Time Authors in Philadelphia
Philadelphia has become a welcoming hub for debut authors who are eager to break into the publishing world. Unlike bigger markets where new voices can be overlooked, many of the city’s publishers actively seek out fresh talent. Independent presses, in particular, take pride in giving first-time writers the platform they need to grow.
- One of Philadelphia’s strengths lies in its range of publishing options. Small indie houses provide personalized guidance, while academic presses give credibility to serious research projects.
- For writers of children’s books, lifestyle titles, or faith-based works, several specialized publishers are ready to nurture emerging voices.
- The city also offers community-driven opportunities beyond publishing. Literary festivals, writer workshops, and local reading series create spaces where new authors can showcase their work and build networks. Publishers often scout at these events, making them valuable stepping stones.
For anyone starting their journey, Philadelphia offers more than just publishers—it provides a complete ecosystem where first-time authors can thrive.
Conclusion
Philadelphia’s publishing scene in 2025 is both rich in tradition and alive with innovation. With 27 standout publishers and a community that embraces creativity, the city continues to be a stronghold for writers at every stage of their careers.
For first-time authors, the opportunities here are unmatched—whether through indie presses that champion fresh ideas or established houses that bring academic prestige. Choosing Philadelphia means joining a city that not only publishes books but also nurtures the people behind them.
