A verified, Virginia-only guide to the state's book publishers — from university presses in Charlottesville to independent and hybrid houses in Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Northern Virginia.
Looking for publishing companies in Virginia? The Commonwealth is home to a focused but high-quality cluster of book publishers. The University of Virginia Press anchors academic publishing in Charlottesville, while Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Northern Virginia host respected independent and hybrid presses such as Brandylane, Koehler Books, Mascot Books, and Stillhouse Press.
Virginia publishers are particularly strong in American history, regional and Appalachian writing, literary fiction, and academic and policy work — a reflection of the state's universities, colonial heritage, and proximity to Washington, D.C. Every publisher in the directory below is currently active and headquartered in Virginia, with its city, focus, and submission status listed so you can find the right fit.
Active, Virginia-based book publishers — independently checked
From Charlottesville and Richmond to Fairfax and Blacksburg
Academic, history, literary fiction, regional, children's and more
Traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing options compared
Every publisher below is active and headquartered in Virginia. City, focus, and submission status are listed for each.
Charlottesville, VA · Founded 1963 · Traditional / Academic
The Commonwealth's flagship scholarly publisher, producing peer-reviewed and trade books in American history, literature, architecture, and African American studies. Submissions are by formal proposal.
Herndon, VA · Founded 2003 · Hybrid
A full-service, multi-genre hybrid publisher and distributor with 2,500+ titles. Strong in children's books, cookbooks, fiction, and nonfiction, with editorial, design, and distribution support. Open to submissions.
Richmond, VA · Founded 1985 · Independent / Hybrid
A respected small independent press publishing fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and children's books, with a hybrid track and the Belle Isle Books imprint. Known for being accessible to new authors and actively inviting submissions.
Virginia Beach, VA · Traditional & Hybrid
A full-service publisher offering both traditional and hybrid contracts across most genres, from fiction and memoir to business and military nonfiction. Provides editorial, design, and marketing support. Open to submissions.
Fairfax, VA · Independent / Nonprofit
An independent, nonprofit craft press developed with George Mason University's creative writing program. Publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, with a focus on unconventional, boundary-pushing voices.
Charlottesville, VA · Independent / Custom
A long-running Charlottesville independent and custom publisher producing fiction and nonfiction, association titles, and high-quality commissioned books.
Alexandria, VA · Founded 2008 · Independent
An Alexandria independent press specializing in science fiction, fantasy, horror, fringe culture, and tabletop/hobby gaming titles for a global audience.
Blacksburg, VA · Independent / Regional
A Blacksburg regional press focused on Virginia history, memoir, and local-interest nonfiction, with a long catalog of Commonwealth-themed titles.
Richmond, VA · Independent
A Richmond independent publisher of fiction and nonfiction with a regional and literary focus, working selectively with a small list of authors.
Emory, VA · Independent / Regional
A small Southwest Virginia press dedicated to Appalachian voices, publishing fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that preserve the region's cultural heritage.
Richmond, VA · Independent / Regional
One of Virginia's oldest publishing houses, specializing in Virginia history, biography, and regional nonfiction with a strong backlist of Commonwealth titles.
Richmond, VA · Institutional Press
The state library's publishing program, producing authoritative books and reference works on Virginia history, archives, and culture — a key resource for historians and regional authors.
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. In Virginia, university presses and houses like Koehler Books offer this path.
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. Virginia options include Mascot Books and Brandylane's Belle Isle Books imprint.
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.