23 Best Book Publishing Companies in Ohio (Submissions)

Ohio, often referred to as the “Birthplace of Aviation”, has a rich literary history and a thriving publishing industry.

The state is home to university presses, regional houses, small literary presses, and the paid author-service companies that many self-publishers use. In this article, you’ll find a list of Ohio publishers, with a note on which ones are open to submissions, which accept only agented work, and which charge authors. When you finish, you can browse my wider list of publishing companies.

Submission policies change without notice, so confirm on the publisher’s own page before you send anything, and never pay a reading fee. Last verified: October 3, 2026.

Here are some of the top publishing companies in Ohio, USA

1. The Ohio State University Press

The Ohio State University Press is the publishing arm of The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. This academic press is recognized for its scholarly rigor, critical analyses, and innovative publications, playing a pivotal role in advancing education across various disciplines. Their catalog spans a wide range of nonfiction titles in various subjects, including history, literature, philosophy, cultural studies, narrative theories, gender and sexuality studies, and various sciences. You can submit a manuscript to them or their imprints, Trillium (regional literature) and Mad Creek (creative works). Submission Guidelines.

Working on a book of your own? You can publish it yourself with PublishDrive (affiliate link).

2. The Kent State University Press

The Kent State University Press is run by an editorial board composed of Kent faculty scholars, ensuring that each book that comes out of the press is highly researched, peer-reviewed, and of the topmost quality. They publish around 35 titles and 2 journals every year. As the publishing arm of a prestigious university, Kent State University Press helps advance and disseminate knowledge in various disciplines. It includes regional history, cultural studies humanities, literature, and Civil War history since 3 of the top Union Generals of the era are Ohio natives, namely Ulysses Grant, Phillip Sheridan, and William Sherman. The press welcomes emailed proposals in its fields, but it is not taking fiction proposals. Submission Guidelines.

3. Ohio University Press

Ohio University Press is the largest scholarly press in Ohio, churning out an average of 50 titles annually. It is affiliated with Ohio University in Athens, OH, and has a rich history of publishing scholarly works that advance exceptional education in various disciplines. Ohio University Press publishes high-quality trade and academic books that span a wide range of subjects, including history, anthropology, political science, literature, regional studies, and cultural studies. Poets can submit only through the Hollis Summers Poetry Prize competition, and for other books the press asks for a proposal rather than a complete manuscript unless an editor invites one. Submission Guidelines.

4. Miami University Press

Miami University Press is a distinguished academic press affiliated with Miami University, located in Oxford, Ohio. Known for its commitment to scholarly excellence, the press publishes works of exceptional quality across a wide range of disciplines. They produce 2-3 new titles yearly. The route for novellas is the annual Novella Prize, which charges an entry fee, and its latest submission window closed on September 1, 2026, so check back for the next one. They publish novellas, short story collections, poetry and poetry-in-translation, short fiction, and books about the university’s history in print and digital formats. Submission Guidelines.

5. The University of Akron Press

The University of Akron Press is a distinguished academic press affiliated with The University of Akron. Known for its commitment to scholarly publication, the press produces books that contribute to the intellectual discourse in various academic disciplines. The University of Akron Press holds the annual Akron Poetry Prize, which pays $1,500 and publishes the winning book in the Akron Series in Poetry. Its 2026 submission window ran from April 15 to June 15 through Submittable. Other authors can start with the inquiry form on its prospective authors page. Submission Guidelines.

6. Cincinnati Book Publishing

Cincinnati Book Publishing is a hybrid publisher based in Cincinnati, OH, that has worked with self-publishing authors and organizations since 1991. Its books are subsidized by authors and sponsors, and it does not buy manuscripts, so expect to pay. They specialize in designing and producing commemorative books for corporations and other organizations that are celebrating milestones or corporate occasions. Its services include editing, design, printing, marketing, and distribution. The company also publishes children’s books, biographies, memoirs, and tribute books such as Gathering Places of Greater Cincinnati by Erschell and Painter. Submission Guidelines.

7. Orange Frazer Press

Orange Frazer Press has published regional nonfiction and sports books, such as sports biographies and team histories, for almost forty years from its base in Wilmington, OH. For its traditional list you send a query with a two-page proposal and a sample chapter by email. It also sells self-publishing and custom publishing services, which you pay for, covering editing, printing, warehousing, and distribution. Submission Guidelines.

8. Oberlin College Press

Oberlin College Press is a non-profit literary press that aims to give American and international poets a platform to get their voices heard by a wider audience. It is an affiliate of Oberlin College based in Oberlin, OH. Oberlin College Press has a particular focus on poetry and translations and is staffed by volunteers and students, most of whom are poets themselves. Its magazine, Field: Contemporary Poetry and Poetics, ended with its Spring 2019 issue. The press no longer takes open submissions: poetry books are considered by invitation only, the Field Poetry Prize has been discontinued, and its books remain in print. Submission Guidelines.

9. Biblio Publishing

Biblio Publishing is a paid publishing service in Grandview Heights, OH, that sells book and ebook production and printing, so expect a quote rather than an advance. It says it accepts all book submissions and reviews each one. Its services include assistance in the editorial, design and digitization, production marketing, and distribution process. Biblio Publishing embraces both fiction and non-fiction works across various genres, fostering a diverse catalog of captivating and informative titles. They empower authors by offering personalized attention and a wealth of publishing resources. Submission Guidelines.

10. Two Dollar Radio

Two Dollar Radio is a family-run book publishing company that gained recognition for its commitment to supporting emerging and innovative literary voices. They are also actively involved in film production and hosting literary events in Columbus, Ohio. Two Dollar Radio offers a platform for writers who challenge conventions and push the boundaries of literature, but it has been closed to general submissions since September 2025, so check its page for any reopening. They publish a diverse range of fiction, creative non-fiction, and essays, covering a wide range of topics that include cult classics, family dramas, coming-of-age, feminism, biography, addiction, and many others. Submission Guidelines.

11. Braughler Books

Braughler Books is a hybrid book publisher in Springboro, OH, giving authors the customary support traditional publishing houses provide, while having total creative control that self-publishers enjoy. Its services are paid by the author. Braughler Books produces books in print (hardcover or paperback), ebook, and audiobook formats. Braughler Books ensures that every piece that comes out of their press is a high-quality product, whether they are memoirs, business books, novels, or nonfiction titles. If you’re interested in working with them, I suggest that you check out their list of services to find the one that fits your needs. Submission Guidelines: NA.

12. Kaeden Publishing

Kaeden Books is an innovative publisher that caters to the young minds of today. It is based in Rocky River, OH. They specialize in producing engaging K-4 classroom and homeschool reading materials in print and ebook format. From beautifully illustrated picture books that ignite imagination to interactive books that promote literacy skills, their diverse collection appeals to a wide range of interests and abilities. It includes science, social studies, and other subjects in English and Spanish language. They are closed to unsolicited submissions at the moment and post calls for specific content on their website, so check their FAQ before you send anything.

13. Coventry House Publishing

Coventry House Publishing is a book publisher in Dublin, OH that nurtures and promotes literary excellence. Established in 2012, they already published around 70 books to date written by 25 different authors. Their books are sold in over 50 countries. Their expert team of editors, designers, and marketers collaborate closely with authors. CHP’s catalog boasts a wide range of books in various fields of knowledge, including business & economics, education & social science, history & academic texts, entertainment & lifestyle, and sports & recreation. Submission Guidelines: NA, so contact them through their website before you send a manuscript.

14. Bottom Dog Press

Bottom Dog Press is an independent book publishing company in Huron, OH, that is dedicated to unearthing raw, authentic voices in contemporary literature. They’ve been championing literary works of Appalachian and working-class authors for almost four decades now. Bottom Dog Press has been a beacon for emerging and marginalized writers, offering a platform to express their unique perspectives. They publish diverse book genres, including memoirs, poetry & literature in translation, anthologies, and books that celebrate the poetry scene of Cleveland. Send a query first, aim for a book of at least 80 pages, and know that it charges a $20 reader’s fee with submissions, an exception to the usual rule of never paying to be read, so decide whether that is worth it to you. Submission Guidelines.

15. Gatekeeper Press

Gatekeeper Press is a paid self-publishing service in Columbus, OH. Authors keep their rights and royalties and pay for the services. They provide a comprehensive suite of services, including editing, cover design, distribution, and marketing, all tailored to meet the unique needs of each author. Whether you are writing a science fiction, romance, horror novel, or whatever other genre you are interested in, they can help you create and share your work with the public or a select group of readers. Gatekeeper Press is in the business of guiding authors through the entire publishing process. Submission Guidelines: NA, refer to the list of services page on their website instead.

16. Barbour Publishing

Barbour Publishing is a trusted and established name in Christian book publishing. With a rich history dating back to 1981, Barbour Publishing has been a beacon of faith-based literature, publishing over 200 titles every year that are sold globally. They publish a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, devotionals, and children’s books, all with a focus on promoting Christian values and biblical teachings. Their 70,000-square-foot facility is located in Uhrichsville, OH. It does not accept unsolicited manuscripts, so you need a literary agent to submit. Submission Guidelines.

17. Gray & Company Publishers

Gray & Company Publishers celebrates the vibrant stories and rich heritage of Cleveland and Ohio. Since its inception, the company has been a champion of local writers and regional narratives, offering a platform for voices often overlooked by mainstream publishing. They have a soft spot for authors doing research and writing about their beloved Cleveland, its people, travel destinations, sports teams, history, art, entertainment industry, true crime stories, popular culture, and trivia. It takes emailed proposals for nonfiction about Cleveland, Northeast Ohio, or Ohio, and it does not consider fiction. It also offers paid custom publishing services for companies and organizations. Submission Guidelines.

18. Higher Ground Books & Media

Higher Ground Books & Media is a Christian hybrid-first publisher in Springfield, OH, where most authors pay a publishing fee, specializing in motivational, educational, inspirational, and transformative books. It has an imprint called Bulletproof Books, which focuses on literature about patriotism, liberty, and the indomitable American spirit. HGBM curates a collection of books that explore the Christian faith, love for God and country, personal growth, spirituality, wellness, American values and ideals, and self-improvement. Their publications encompass a range of genres, including motivational books, memoirs, spiritual guides, and Christian ministry resources. Submission Guidelines.

19. Monday Creek Publishing

Monday Creek Publishing is a dynamic book publisher in Buchtel, OH, just at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. They offer publication, book review, editorial, and marketing & media promotion services to help authors ensure the success of their published works. Their diverse catalog spans genres, including historical fiction, biography, memoirs, journals, children’s literature, poetry & prose, and books about horses. MCP works closely with authors to bring each story and idea to life. Its homepage currently lists an open call for the anthology “The Shape of Flight”, which takes essays, stories, and poems by email.

20. Porkbelly Press

Porkbelly Press is an indie micro press in Cincinnati, OH, that champions the art of the small, the intimate, and the unconventional. They publish hardbound and softcover chapbooks and micro-collections that challenge traditional norms using only the finest papers and traditional bookbinding methods. Their carefully curated catalog encompasses a wide array of genres, including poetry, flash fiction, and hybrid forms, embracing diverse voices and experimental styles. They also publish themed anthologies and a couple of magazines, Sugar Water and Love Me, Love My Belly. Reading periods are short, so check the dates before you send anything. Submission Guidelines.

21. Quill & Crow Publishing House

Quill & Crow Publishing House is an indie press in Brecksville, OH, specializing in horror, dark fantasy, speculative fiction, and other dark fiction and nonfiction. With a profound appreciation for the written word, Quill & Crow offers a platform for both emerging and established authors across various genres. If you are fascinated by reading and writing macabre tales that feature haunted places, paranormal occurrences, supernatural characters, dark art, and other nightmarish themes, Quill & Crow is the publisher for you. It considers novels and horror novellas without an agent, and its submissions reopened on October 1, 2026. Submission Guidelines.

22. Anadem Publishing

Anadem Publishing, Inc. of Columbus, OH, is a trusted provider of comprehensive information in healthcare, law, and business. They have a deep understanding of the intricate nuances of the said fields and have published resources to meet the evolving needs of professionals. Their offerings include authoritative books, insightful research journals, and up-to-date reference materials, all of which are meticulously crafted. They also purvey highly informative and peer-reviewed books in the fields of optometry, family medicine, and emergency medicine. Submission Guidelines: NA, course your inquiries through their contact page.

23. Highlights International

Highlights International is a renowned children’s book and magazine publisher nestled in Columbus, OH. With a rich legacy spanning over seven decades, they are committed to igniting the love for reading in young minds. Their collection encompasses captivating tales, interactive puzzles, and educational content that nurtures both imagination and knowledge. From picture books for toddlers to engrossing novels for young adults, the company crafts literature that sparks curiosity and fosters a lifelong passion for storytelling. Submission Guidelines: NA, you can send them a message using their website’s contact page.

Names you may be looking for

Columbus Press

Columbus Press’s website now blocks visitors, so it is unclear whether the press is still taking work. Confirm it is active before you send a manuscript.

Whitefish Press

Whitefish Press’s website no longer loads, so it is unclear whether the press is still taking work. Confirm it is active before you send a manuscript.

Final Thoughts

Ohio is home to a vibrant and diverse publishing industry, with numerous book publishing companies contributing to the literary world. From academic presses to independent publishers and paid author services, these companies show the range of Ohio’s literary community. Whether you are a full-time or part-time writer looking to publish your manuscript, or an editor seeking employment in the state, these publishing companies in Ohio can help create an opportunity in the publishing world. They can help bring your novel, short story collection, memoir, poetry, or other literary gems to your target readers. Next up, you may want to explore a guide on the top publishing companies in Indianapolis.