Your complete guide to North Carolina's publishing scene. Compare traditional publishers, hybrid services, and self-publishing companies.
North Carolina's publishing scene thrives in the Research Triangle and beyond, combining academic excellence with literary creativity. From Chapel Hill's university presses to Charlotte's commercial publishers and Asheville's literary community, the state offers diverse opportunities for authors.
North Carolina publishers embrace both Southern heritage and progressive innovation, serving markets from regional history to contemporary fiction, from academic monographs to business books. The state's growing technology sector and strong university system create a dynamic publishing environment.
Comprehensive directory of North Carolina's top publishing companies
Combined output from North Carolina publishers each year
From fiction to academic, covering all publishing needs
Editing, design, marketing, distribution, and more
Browse our comprehensive list of North Carolina publishing companies.
Leading academic publisher with strengths in Southern studies and American history.
Prestigious academic publisher known for cultural studies and theory.
Chapel Hill literary publisher known for quality fiction and nonfiction.
Winston-Salem regional publisher of Southern books.
Minneapolis publisher with Charlotte operations.
Jefferson publisher of reference and scholarly books.
Durham publisher of legal and academic books.
Academic publisher of poetry and literature.
Publisher of Irish poetry and contemporary verse.
Durham publisher of fiction and nonfiction.
Marion publisher of quality nonfiction.
Durham publisher of fiction and poetry chapbooks.
University of Alabama press with North Carolina ties.
Plymouth publisher with North Carolina distribution.
Choose the publishing model that best fits your goals and budget
Traditional publishing involves submitting your manuscript to a publishing house for consideration. If accepted, the publisher covers all costs and provides an advance against royalties.
Best for: Authors seeking prestige, established authors, genre fiction
Hybrid publishing combines elements of traditional and self-publishing. Authors share costs with the publisher while maintaining creative control and receiving professional services.
Best for: Authors wanting professional quality, first-time authors, niche markets
Self-publishing gives authors complete control over every aspect of the publishing process. Authors handle all aspects from editing to marketing, or hire freelancers for specific services.
Best for: Authors with budget and time, established authors, entrepreneurs
Key factors to consider when selecting a publisher for your book
Before choosing a publisher, clarify what you want to achieve with your book. Are you looking for prestige and credibility? Do you want to maximize profits? Are you publishing for personal fulfillment or business purposes? Your goals will determine the best publishing path for you.
Not all publishers are created equal. Research each publisher's reputation, read author reviews, and check for any red flags. Look for publishers with a track record of quality work and satisfied authors.
Always read and understand the publishing contract before signing. Pay attention to rights ownership, royalty rates, termination clauses, and any hidden fees. Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek legal advice if needed.
Compare what each publisher offers and at what price. Look beyond the base price to understand what's included in the package. Consider the value of services like editing, design, marketing, and distribution support.
A good publisher should provide ongoing support throughout the publishing process and beyond. Look for publishers who offer guidance, answer questions promptly, and provide resources to help you succeed.
Ask for sample books published by the company and contact references from previous authors. Seeing the quality of their work and hearing from other authors can give you valuable insights into what to expect.