Illinois is home to a vibrant book publishing industry featuring publishing houses, distribution firms, and independent presses. This sector produces a vast array of titles, ranging from educational material to fiction and non-fiction. The rise of digital formats is reshaping traditional publishing, with many companies now adopting innovative strategies for online accessibility. Publishers are increasingly focusing on niche markets, catering to specific genres and audiences. With the growth of self-publishing, many Illinois companies are evolving to support independent authors, showcasing a commitment to fostering creativity and enabling a range of voices within the literary community.

The Illinois book publishing scene features companies of various sizes, including established firms like Sourcebooks, and newer entities such as Kharis Publishing. Founded between 1917 and 2015, these companies are primarily located in Chicago, Naperville, and Carol Stream. Specializations vary widely, covering genres from children's literature to Christian publications. Notably, many employ between 11 and 500 people, demonstrating a mix of niche, professional, and community-focused operations. This blend influences the array of titles they offer and the services they provide to authors and readers alike.

Discover more about the top book publishing companies in Illinois.

Top 19 Book Publishing Companies Companies in Illinois

1. Sourcebooks

• Website: sourcebooks.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Naperville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: March 2024
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: sourcebooks

Sourcebooks LLC, based in Naperville, Illinois, is a prominent book publisher that has been operational since 1987. The company specializes in a wide array of genres, including children's literature, young adult fiction, romance, and nonfiction. With a workforce of approximately 407 employees, Sourcebooks has carved out a niche for itself by catering to consumers, educators, and organizations seeking quality literature. Their catalog features a mix of physical and digital products, reflecting their adaptability in a changing market. Sourcebooks is known for its innovative initiatives, such as personalized story applications that enhance reader engagement. The company also emphasizes community involvement, offering resources for educators and parents, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Their commitment to publishing impactful literature is evident in their various imprints and the breadth of their catalog, which includes award-winning titles and bestsellers.

2. Tyndale House Publishers

• Website: tyndale.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Carol Stream, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1962
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: tyndale-house-publishers

Tyndale House Publishers, based in Carol Stream, Illinois, is a private company that specializes in Christian literature. Founded in 1962, Tyndale has built a reputation for producing a wide array of books, including Bibles, nonfiction, and fiction titles. Their offerings are designed to support spiritual growth and education for individuals, churches, and organizations. Tyndale operates primarily through its online store, making it easy for customers to access their products. The company employs between 201 and 500 people, indicating a robust operational capacity. Tyndale's focus on quality content and its commitment to the Christian community have positioned it as a significant player in the book publishing industry, particularly in the niche of religious literature.

3. InterVarsity Press

• Website: ivpress.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lisle, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%
• Founded year: 1947
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: intervarsity-press

InterVarsity Press (IVP) is a private publishing company based in Lisle, Illinois, specializing in Christian literature. Established in 1947, IVP has built a robust catalog that includes a wide array of books, Bible studies, and academic resources. Their offerings cater to individuals seeking personal spiritual growth, churches looking for educational materials, and academic institutions in need of scholarly texts. IVP operates primarily through online sales, ensuring accessibility to their products. The company also engages with its audience through various podcasts and articles, enhancing its presence in the publishing industry. With a workforce of approximately 149 employees, IVP maintains a significant focus on producing thoughtful content that resonates with contemporary Christian themes, including mental health and social justice.

4. Chicago Review Press

• Website: chicagoreviewpress.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: chicago-review-press

Chicago Review Press, founded in 1973 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private independent publisher that specializes in a wide array of literary works. The company publishes approximately 50 new titles annually across various genres, including children's books, biographies, and educational materials. With over 1,000 titles currently in print, Chicago Review Press has established itself as a significant player in the publishing industry. They operate primarily through an online store, allowing direct access to both physical and digital formats of their books. The company is dedicated to promoting voices from underrepresented communities and aims to contribute positively to cultural conversations through literature. Their imprints include Chicago Review Press, Lawrence Hill Books, Amberjack Publishing, and others, further expanding their reach and influence in the market.

5. Independent Publishers Group

• Website: ipgbook.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $10.0M, September 2021
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: independent-publishers-group

Independent Publishers Group (IPG) is a Chicago-based book distribution and publishing services provider, established in 1971. The company specializes in connecting independent publishers with a wide array of sales channels, enhancing their market reach and sales performance. IPG offers a comprehensive suite of services, including marketing, publicity, and digital services, tailored to meet the needs of its clients. They operate multiple distribution programs, catering to various market segments such as academic, professional, and Spanish-language publishing. With a dedicated in-house sales force and a commitment to digital innovation, IPG ensures that its clients' titles are accessible across numerous platforms, including eBooks and print-on-demand services. The company has also received significant funding, amounting to $10 million in 2021, which underscores its growth and relevance in the industry.

6. Agate Publishing, Inc.

• Website: agatepublishing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Evanston, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: agate-publishing-inc.

Agate Publishing, Inc., based in Evanston, Illinois, is a private publishing company founded in 2002. With a workforce of approximately 46 employees, Agate specializes in producing books that cover a range of topics, including food, lifestyle, and business literature. The company is known for its quality content and has developed a reputation for engaging with its audience through online sales and promotional activities. Agate operates several imprints, such as Agate B2, Agate Bolden, and Agate Surrey, which allow them to target specific markets and reader interests. Their catalog includes titles that reflect contemporary issues and cultural narratives, showcasing their commitment to relevant and timely publishing. Agate also emphasizes career development in the publishing field through its Agate Publishing Academy, which offers training and internships for aspiring publishing professionals.

7. Kharis Publishing

• Website: kharispublishing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Aurora, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: kharis-publishing

Kharis Publishing, based in Aurora, Illinois, is a private publishing company that specializes in inspirational and faith-based literature. Established in 2015, Kharis Publishing offers a range of services to aspiring authors, including editing, design, and distribution, all at no upfront cost to the authors. The company particularly aims to support under-represented voices, including women and first-time authors, by providing them with a platform to share their stories. Kharis Publishing also integrates social responsibility into its operations by supporting literacy initiatives for orphans, thereby contributing to educational resources in developing countries. Their innovative approach combines traditional publishing benefits with modern digital solutions, making them a noteworthy player in the publishing industry.

8. Oasis Family Media, LLC.

• Website: oasisfamilymedia.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Carol Stream, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: oasis-audio

Oasis Family Media, LLC. is a publishing company based in Carol Stream, Illinois, specializing in inspirational audiobooks and print products. Founded in 1996, the company has developed a catalog that includes more than 1,200 titles, with an annual addition of approximately 175 new audiobooks. Their offerings cater to a wide audience, featuring popular children's series, romance, suspense fiction, business advice, and self-help content. Oasis Family Media also publishes classic literature through its Paperback Classics line, which reintroduces nostalgic tales as audiobooks. Additionally, the company has a distinct focus on Christian speculative fiction through its Enclave imprint, which covers genres such as science fiction and fantasy from a Christian perspective. Their Sky Turtle Press division aims to produce beautifully illustrated books for all ages, showcasing timeless stories and newly imagined classics. With a dedicated team of 17 employees, Oasis Family Media continues to serve consumers seeking enriching audio and print experiences.

9. Perma-Bound Books

• Website: perma-bound.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Jacksonville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Georgia 3%, Ghana 3%
• Founded year: 1954
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: perma-bound-books

Perma-Bound Books, established in 1954 and based in Jacksonville, Illinois, is a family-owned company that specializes in publishing durable prebound books and digital audiobooks tailored for K-12 educational institutions and libraries. The company emerged from a combination of three binderies, leveraging over 160 years of binding experience to set industry standards. Perma-Bound is recognized for its commitment to quality, offering an unconditional guarantee on its products, which are designed to withstand the rigors of school use. Their catalog includes a wide range of curriculum materials, library services, and digital products, catering to the specific needs of educators and librarians. With a focus on enhancing student learning, Perma-Bound continues to be a trusted resource in the educational publishing sector.

10. eBooks2go

• Website: ebooks2go.net
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Schaumburg, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, India 12%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ebooks2go

eBooks2go, founded in 2011 and based in Schaumburg, Illinois, is a family-owned self-publishing service that assists authors in navigating the complexities of publishing their works. The company offers a range of services, including print publishing, eBook conversions, marketing, editing, and cover design. With a team of 11-50 employees, eBooks2go focuses on providing personalized support to authors, ensuring they have the necessary resources to succeed in the competitive publishing environment. Their global distribution network allows authors to reach bookstores and libraries in over 200 countries, enhancing the visibility of self-published works. eBooks2go has garnered positive testimonials from authors who appreciate the hands-on approach and the expertise of the staff, indicating a commitment to author satisfaction and success.

11. Triumph Books

• Website: triumphbooks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: triumph-books

Triumph Books, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private book publisher that specializes in sports literature. Established in 1989, the company has carved out a niche in the publishing industry by focusing on a wide range of topics related to various sports leagues, teams, and athletes. Their offerings include team histories, biographies, pictorials, and rule books, catering primarily to sports fans and enthusiasts. Triumph Books operates mainly as a retailer, selling its publications directly to consumers through its online platform. The company has built partnerships with notable sports figures and organizations, enhancing its credibility and reach within the sports community. With a dedicated catalog that spans multiple sports, Triumph Books continues to be an active player in the publishing sector, producing content that resonates with a passionate audience.

12. Bound to Stay Bound Books

• Website: btsb.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Jacksonville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1920
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bound-to-stay-bound-books

Bound to Stay Bound Books, founded in 1920 and based in Jacksonville, Illinois, is a family-owned book publisher and library service provider. The company specializes in durable children's literature, offering a range of products that include prebound books, educational resources, and various library support services. Their primary clientele consists of schools and libraries that require high-quality materials for their collections. Bound to Stay Bound Books is recognized for its KidProof™ covers, which ensure that their books withstand the rigors of frequent use in educational settings. The company also provides services such as collection analysis, processing, and subscription services to help libraries manage their collections effectively. With a focus on enhancing the reading experience for children and supporting educational institutions, Bound to Stay Bound Books has established itself as a reliable partner in the book publishing industry.

13. Oasis Audio

• Website: oasisaudio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Carol Stream, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: oasis-audio

Oasis Audio, based in Carol Stream, Illinois, has been a player in the audiobook publishing industry since its founding in 1996. The company specializes in creating inspirational and family-friendly audiobooks, offering a catalog that exceeds 2,000 titles. Each year, they add approximately 175 new audiobooks, covering genres such as romance, suspense, children's literature, and self-help. Oasis Audio prides itself on high-quality production values, utilizing skilled narrators and top-notch equipment to ensure that their audiobooks resonate with listeners. Their commitment to artistic integrity and listener engagement sets them apart in a market that increasingly faces challenges from budget cuts and automation. The leadership team at Oasis Audio brings a wealth of experience from various backgrounds, enhancing their ability to innovate and adapt in a changing industry. They aim to provide listeners with enriching experiences that inspire and refresh, making them a noteworthy entity in the audiobook publishing space.

14. Cottage Door Press

• Website: cottagedoorpress.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Rolling Meadows, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%
• Latest funding: $6.0M, October 2018
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cottage-door-press

Cottage Door Press, LLC, based in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, is a private book publisher established in 2014. The company specializes in children's literature and educational materials, offering a wide array of products that cater to the needs of parents, schools, and libraries. Their catalog features novelty board books, storybooks, electronic learning tools, and activity books designed to support early childhood development. With a workforce of around 64 employees, Cottage Door Press has made significant strides in the industry, focusing on creating engaging content that inspires a love for reading among young children. The company has also received funding of $6 million in 2018, which likely supports its growth and product development initiatives. Their partnerships with popular brands such as CoComelon, PAW Patrol, and Smithsonian further solidify their position in the market, making them a relevant player in the children's publishing sector.

15. Children's Plus Inc.

• Website: hellocpi.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beecher, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: children%27s-plus-inc-

Children's Plus Inc., now known as Libraria, is an educational publisher and library services provider based in Beecher, Illinois. Founded in 1979, the company has built a reputation for curating collections of children's and young adult literature. They serve public libraries, school libraries, and classrooms, helping these institutions enhance their collections and support educational initiatives. With over 370,000 titles available, including a significant number of guaranteed library editions, Children's Plus Inc. has established partnerships with numerous major educational and trade publishers, as well as small independent presses. Their services include collection development, opening day collections, cataloging, and processing, all tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients. The company has been recognized for its customer service and adaptability, particularly in supporting summer reading programs and other educational initiatives.

16. World Book, Inc.

• Website: worldbook.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Australia 5%, Nigeria 2%
• Founded year: 1917
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: world-book

World Book, Inc., founded in 1917 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private educational publisher specializing in encyclopedias and educational materials tailored for children and teachers. The company is dedicated to enhancing learning and reading comprehension through a variety of products designed for students, educators, and parents. Their offerings include both print and digital resources, with a strong emphasis on accuracy and engagement. World Book's editorial team is committed to producing content that is not only informative but also accessible, ensuring that complex topics are presented in a clear and engaging manner. The company operates primarily through online sales, reflecting a modern approach to distribution in the educational sector. With a workforce of approximately 241 employees, World Book continues to be a trusted resource in homes, libraries, and classrooms across the United States and beyond.

17. Kidsbooks Publishing

• Website: kidsbookspublishing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 56%, United Kingdom (UK) 44%
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: kidsbooks

Kidsbooks Publishing, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private company that has been in operation since 1986. Specializing in children's literature, the company produces a wide array of books tailored for various age groups, from infants to early readers. Their catalog includes activity books, educational titles, and picture books, all designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of children. With a workforce of around 32 employees, Kidsbooks Publishing emphasizes quality and innovation in their offerings. They primarily sell their products online, making them accessible to a broad audience. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model focused on organic growth and customer engagement.

18. Crossed Crow Books

• Website: crossedcrowbooks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: crossedcrowbooks

Crossed Crow Books is an independent publisher based in Chicago, Illinois, established in 2022. The company specializes in occult literature, with a particular emphasis on witchcraft, magic, and divination. They provide a platform for authors to express their voices through written works that explore these esoteric subjects. Crossed Crow Books operates primarily through online sales, allowing customers to purchase titles directly from their website. The publisher is dedicated to producing a variety of resources aimed at individuals interested in deepening their understanding of occult practices. Their catalog includes both available and forthcoming titles, showcasing a commitment to expanding their offerings in this niche market. The company actively seeks submissions from authors and collaborates with freelance artists for cover design and illustrations, indicating a dynamic approach to publishing.

19. Total Printing Systems

• Website: tps1.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Newton, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: total-printing-systems

Total Printing Systems, founded in 1973 and based in Newton, Illinois, is a family-owned company that specializes in digital book manufacturing. With a workforce of around 21 employees, they focus on short-run book printing and binding, catering primarily to self-publishers, authors, and small to mid-sized publishers. Their capabilities include high-quality printing in various formats, complete in-house binding, and a suite of fulfillment services such as warehousing and inventory management. The company also offers eBook conversion, reflecting their adaptability to changing market demands. Total Printing Systems utilizes state-of-the-art digital technology, ensuring efficient production processes and high-quality outputs. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in the testimonials from clients who appreciate their reliability and quality of service.

Book Publishing Companies Insights: Key Companies in Illinois

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Sourcebooks	Naperville, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	1987	Corporate
Tyndale House Publishers	Carol Stream, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	1962	Private
InterVarsity Press	Lisle, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1947	Private
Chicago Review Press	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1973	Private
Independent Publishers Group	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	1971	Corporate
Agate Publishing, Inc.	Evanston, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2002	Private
Kharis Publishing	Aurora, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	Private
Oasis Family Media, LLC.	Carol Stream, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Private
Perma-Bound Books	Jacksonville, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1954	Family Owned
eBooks2go	Schaumburg, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2011	Family Owned
Triumph Books	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	1989	Private
Bound to Stay Bound Books	Jacksonville, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1920	Family Owned
Oasis Audio	Carol Stream, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Private
Cottage Door Press	Rolling Meadows, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	2014	Private
Children's Plus Inc.	Beecher, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1979	Private
World Book, Inc.	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1917	Private
Kidsbooks Publishing	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	1-10	1986	Private
Crossed Crow Books	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	1-10	2022	Private
Total Printing Systems	Newton, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1973	Family Owned

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