Ohio's book publishing companies contribute significantly to the literary world, producing a variety of formats including print, digital, and audiobooks. The industry is characterized by a mix of small independent publishers and larger corporations, many focusing on niche markets like children's literature, religious titles, and educational resources. Recent trends suggest a growing interest in digital content, with more publishers exploring digital distribution channels and multimedia formats. As readers increasingly seek diverse content, Ohio's publishers are adapting by innovating across platforms and collaborating with authors to meet changing consumer demands while maintaining traditional publishing practices.


This listing features 23 book publishing companies based in Ohio, ranging from small startups to well-established firms. They vary in size from under ten employees to several hundred, with headquarters located in cities like Columbus, Dayton, and Cleveland. Founded between 1946 and 2021, these companies specialize in genres from children's publishing to spiritual materials, reflecting a broad spectrum of interests and target audiences. Their shared goal is to create and distribute engaging content while harnessing technology to reach readers efficiently.


Continue reading to discover the top book publishing companies in Ohio.


Top 23 Book Publishing Companies in Ohio


1. Dreamscape Media

  • Website: dreamscapepublishing.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Holland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%, Canada 2%, Other 2%
  • Latest funding: July 2024
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: dreamscape-media-llc

Dreamscape Media, founded in 2010 and based in Holland, Ohio, is an independent publisher and multimedia studio. The company specializes in producing and distributing audiobooks, eBooks, and videos, catering to a wide audience that includes consumers, libraries, and independent authors. With a catalog boasting over 7,000 audiobooks and 2,000 video titles, Dreamscape has established itself as a significant player in the publishing industry. They have received recognition for their quality, with 25 Audie Award wins and nominations, showcasing their commitment to excellence. Their partnerships with various authors and organizations, including a recent collaboration with The Jim Henson Company, further illustrate their active engagement in the market. Dreamscape Media also offers publishing services through their Dreamscape Select program, which assists independent authors in reaching broader audiences. This multifaceted approach allows them to maintain relevance in a competitive industry.


2. Barbour Publishing, Inc.

  • Website: barbourbooks.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Uhrichsville, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: barbour-publishing-inc.

Barbour Publishing, Inc., founded in 1981 and based in Uhrichsville, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in religious and inspirational literature. The company publishes a wide array of products, including Bibles, devotionals, and fiction tailored for different age groups. Their offerings are designed to provide spiritual guidance and entertainment, primarily targeting consumers interested in Christian literature. Barbour operates an online store, facilitating direct sales to customers and enhancing their market presence. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, Barbour Publishing continues to play an active role in the book publishing industry, focusing on a niche that remains significant to many readers.


3. Highlights for Children

  • Website: highlights.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
  • Founded year: 1946
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: highlights-for-children

Highlights for Children, founded in 1946 and based in Columbus, Ohio, is a prominent publisher of children's magazines and educational products. The company specializes in creating engaging materials that foster learning and creativity among children. Their product range includes well-known magazines such as Highlights, High Five, and brainPLAY, which cater to various age groups from infants to pre-teens. Highlights for Children has built a reputation for delivering content that is not only fun but also educational, aiming to inspire curiosity and confidence in young readers. The company also offers a variety of books, puzzles, and activity kits, making it a comprehensive resource for parents and educators seeking to enrich children's learning experiences. With a workforce of around 360 employees, Highlights for Children remains a significant player in the children's publishing industry, focusing on quality content that supports developmental milestones.


4. Author Academy Elite

  • Website: authoracademyelite.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Powell, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: author-academy-elite

Author Academy Elite, based in Powell, Ohio, is a private company founded in 2014 that specializes in writing coaching and publishing services. With a team of approximately 53 employees, the company aims to assist aspiring authors in navigating the complexities of writing, publishing, and marketing their books. They offer a structured program that includes expert training, community support, and a unique 52 Mini Missions™ format, which guides authors step-by-step through the publishing process. This program is designed to empower authors, allowing them to maintain full control over their content and profits. Author Academy Elite has trained over 250,000 authors through various channels, including in-person and online sessions. Their community, known as the Igniting Souls Tribe, fosters collaboration and support among authors. The company has successfully published numerous books across various genres, showcasing their commitment to quality and author success.


5. Stenhouse Publishers

  • Website: stenhouse.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: stenhouse-publishers

Stenhouse Publishers, based in Columbus, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in educational resources aimed at teachers and educators. Founded in 1994, the company has carved out a significant niche in the market by focusing on materials that enhance teaching practices and support student learning. Stenhouse is known for its commitment to quality and practical resources, which include books, eBooks, and instructional materials that cater to the needs of educators across various subjects. The company operates primarily through online sales, making its products accessible to a wide audience. Stenhouse Publishers has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model that relies on its established reputation and customer base.


6. Baker & Taylor Publisher Services


Baker & Taylor Publisher Services (BTPS), founded in 2017 and based in Ashland, Ohio, is a private company that provides a comprehensive suite of services to book publishers. These services include sales and distribution, warehousing, fulfillment, and print-on-demand manufacturing. BTPS caters to a wide range of clients, from independent publishers to larger entities, ensuring that their titles reach various markets effectively. The company benefits from its affiliation with Baker & Taylor, leveraging its established relationships with public libraries and educational institutions. This connection allows BTPS to offer unique advantages to its clients, particularly in accessing library and educational markets. Their operational model emphasizes efficiency, with a centralized facility that streamlines shipping and inventory management. BTPS also prioritizes data-driven insights, providing client publishers with real-time information on inventory and sales, which is crucial for informed decision-making in the publishing industry.


7. OverDrive

  • Website: overdrive.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Australia 2%, Other 4%
  • Latest funding: June 2020
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: rakuten-overdrive

OverDrive, founded in 1986 and based in Cleveland, Ohio, is a digital content distributor specializing in ebooks, audiobooks, and other digital media. The company partners with public libraries, K-12 schools, and publishers to enhance reading experiences and support educational initiatives. OverDrive operates the Libby and Sora apps, which provide users with easy access to a vast catalog of reading materials. With a network of approximately 92,000 libraries and schools across 115 countries, OverDrive plays a pivotal role in promoting literacy and learning. The company is committed to creating a world where reading is accessible to all, and it continuously innovates to meet the needs of its partners and users. OverDrive has not reported any recent funding, indicating stability in its operations since its last funding round in 2020.


8. Beauty From Ashes, LLC

  • Website: beautyfromashes44.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Dayton, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: beauty-from-ashes-llc

Beauty From Ashes, LLC is a private company based in Dayton, Ohio, specializing in the publishing and retailing of books and related merchandise. Founded in 2018, the company aims to provide resources for personal development and storytelling. The founder, Carrie B. Farley, began her professional writing journey in 2019 and has since published several works, including the 'Love Series' and personal development books. The company actively engages with its audience through various events, such as book launches and signings, and offers a loyalty program to enhance customer interaction. This approach not only fosters community but also promotes the authors' works effectively. Beauty From Ashes, LLC operates entirely within the United States and has a small team dedicated to its mission of empowering readers and writers alike.


9. Christian Editing and Design


Christian Editing and Design, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a private company founded in 2009. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, they specialize in providing a suite of services tailored for Christian authors. Their offerings include book editing, design, marketing, and specialized services for children's books. The company prides itself on helping authors produce high-quality manuscripts and effectively reach their audience. They emphasize a Christ-centered approach in their work, aiming to support authors not just professionally but also spiritually. Their comprehensive editing process includes content editing, line editing, and proofreading, ensuring that the authors' messages are conveyed accurately. Additionally, they assist with marketing efforts, helping authors promote their books through social media and other channels. Christian Editing and Design has built a reputation for dependability and integrity, as reflected in numerous positive testimonials from authors who have worked with them.


10. Findaway

  • Website: findaway.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Solon, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Canada 7%
  • Latest funding: November 2021
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: findaway

Findaway, founded in 2004 and based in Solon, Ohio, is a company that specializes in audiobook services and digital distribution. With a workforce of around 106 employees, Findaway has carved out a niche in the publishing and media industries by offering innovative tools such as AudioEngine and Findaway Voices. These platforms enable authors and publishers to effectively distribute their audio content, catering to both businesses and consumers. In November 2021, Findaway became part of Spotify, a move that underscores its importance in the audiobook market and enhances its capabilities in reaching a wider audience. The company primarily serves the U.S. market, with a small presence in Canada, and continues to play a vital role in the evolution of how literature is consumed in audio format.


11. The Early Bird

  • Website: ertelpublishing.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Yellow Springs, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: ertel-publishing

The Early Bird, known as Ertel Publishing, is a private publishing company based in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Established in 1989, it specializes in the design and production of magazines and books. The company prides itself on its ability to guide clients through the entire production process, from initial design to distribution. In addition to production, Ertel Publishing offers sales and marketing support, ensuring that their publications reach their intended audience effectively. With a small team of 1-10 employees, they maintain a focused approach to client service, emphasizing custom solutions tailored to the unique needs of businesses and organizations. Their expertise in both print and online publishing positions them as a valuable partner for those looking to enhance their publication efforts.


12. Igniting Souls

  • Website: ignitingsouls.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Powell, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: igniting-souls

Igniting Souls, based in Powell, Ohio, is a private publishing agency founded in 2003. The company specializes in transformational publishing, which aims to empower authors, entrepreneurs, and influencers by providing support in publishing, promoting, and protecting their intellectual property. Igniting Souls operates under a model that prioritizes quality and impact, allowing authors to retain control over their work and maximize their income potential. The agency has published over 1,000 authors and has trained more than 250,000 individuals worldwide in various aspects of publishing and intellectual property management. Kary Oberbrunner, the CEO, is a bestselling author and a recognized speaker, further enhancing the company's credibility in the industry. Igniting Souls also integrates innovative practices, such as their Instant IP™ service for intellectual property protection, showcasing their commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving market.


13. Bayard Teleservices


Bayard Teleservices, known as Bayard, Inc., is a private publishing company based in Dayton, Ohio, founded in 1979. The company specializes in producing religious and spiritual materials primarily for the Catholic community. Their offerings include a variety of publications such as magazines, books, and digital resources designed to support spiritual growth and education. Bayard's mission is to promote Christian values and provide accessible content that resonates with individuals and families. They publish well-known titles like Catholic Digest, Living Faith, and Living with Christ, reaching millions of readers each month. Bayard operates several divisions, including Twenty-Third Publications and Pflaum Publishing Group, which further extend their reach in the religious publishing sector. The company is committed to serving the American Catholic community and has a significant presence in both print and digital formats, ensuring their materials are widely available.


14. Apex Solutions LTD

  • Website: apexsolutionsltd.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Dublin, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: India 81%, United States (USA) 10%, Papua New Guinea 10%
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: apex-solutions-ltd1

Apex Solutions LTD, founded in 1998 and based in Dublin, Ohio, is a private company with a workforce of around 500 employees. The firm specializes in digital publishing and consulting, offering a wide array of services tailored to authors, publishers, and educational institutions. Their offerings include eBook conversion, typesetting, copy editing, and audiobook production, among others. Apex Solutions also provides digital marketing services aimed at enhancing the visibility and sales of published works. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, they have developed a reputation for helping clients navigate the complexities of digital content creation and distribution. Their global presence is notable, with a significant portion of their workforce located in India, indicating a strategic approach to resource allocation and service delivery.


15. 48 Hour Books

  • Website: 48hrbooks.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Twinsburg, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1984
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: 48-hour-books

48 Hour Books, founded in 1984 and based in Twinsburg, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in providing rapid and professional book printing services tailored for self-publishers. With a workforce of around 23 employees, the company operates with a clear mission: to assist authors in bringing their stories to life through efficient printing solutions. They offer a variety of services, including custom book printing, binding, and design, catering to both individual authors and businesses. Their unique selling proposition lies in their ability to print books in as little as 48 hours, which is particularly appealing to self-publishers who require quick turnaround times. Additionally, 48 Hour Books provides extensive resources and support for the self-publishing process, including templates, guides, and marketing resources, further solidifying their role as a partner for aspiring authors.


16. Digitalia Publishing

  • Website: digitalia.us
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: London, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Colombia 73%, United Kingdom (UK) 27%
  • Founded year: 2007
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: digitalia-inc.

Digitalia Publishing, founded in 2007 and based in London, Ohio, is a private company that operates in the digital content sector. With a team of professionals skilled in publishing and distribution, Digitalia focuses on providing e-books, e-journals, and educational resources primarily for libraries and academic institutions. Their offerings include extensive databases in Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Catalan, catering to a wide range of linguistic and cultural needs. Digitalia's commitment to enhancing access to quality content is evident in their partnerships with various publishers and their emphasis on educational tools. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained operational model. Digitalia's role in the digital publishing space is significant, especially for institutions seeking to enrich their collections with high-quality digital resources.


17. LEAP Publishing Services, Inc.


LEAP Publishing Services, Inc., founded in 1993 and based in Canton, Ohio, is a dedicated provider of publishing services tailored specifically for educational publishers. The company specializes in a range of services including development, writing, editorial project management, and production. With a focus on K-12, higher education, and professional/trade markets, LEAP assists clients in navigating the complexities of content creation and production. Their team, comprised of professionals with extensive publishing backgrounds, ensures that high-quality educational materials are delivered efficiently. LEAP has built strong relationships with a variety of clients, including well-known educational publishers such as Cengage Learning, McGraw-Hill Education, and Pearson Education. This collaborative approach allows them to understand the unique needs of each publisher, providing a customized service that enhances the quality of educational products. Their commitment to excellence and attention to detail has established LEAP as a trusted partner in the educational publishing industry.


18. Igniting Souls


Igniting Souls is a personal development company based in Powell, Ohio, founded in 2003 by Kary Oberbrunner. The company specializes in providing programs, books, and resources designed to assist individuals and organizations in clarifying their identity, purpose, and direction. Igniting Souls serves a wide audience, including authors, entrepreneurs, and those seeking personal growth. Kary Oberbrunner, a bestselling author himself, has published over a dozen books and has developed a range of training and consulting services aimed at helping others achieve their goals. The company also offers specific programs for aspiring authors, such as 'My Book Blueprint' and 'Ghostwriter Academy,' which guide individuals through the writing and publishing process. Igniting Souls is committed to empowering authors to protect and promote their intellectual property, turning their ideas into multiple streams of income. This focus on the publishing aspect, combined with their broader mission of personal development, highlights their involvement in the book publishing industry.


19. CSS Publishing Company

  • Website: csspub.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Lima, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1970
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: css-publishing-company

CSS Publishing Company, based in Lima, Ohio, has been a significant player in the Christian publishing sector since its founding in 1970. With a workforce of 11 to 50 employees, the company specializes in producing a wide array of resources aimed at enhancing worship, preaching, and educational practices within the Christian community. Their catalog includes sermons, children's resources, liturgical aids, and various educational materials designed for churches and individuals alike. Operating primarily through an online store, CSS Publishing Company ensures easy access to their products, catering to the needs of pastors and church leaders. Their focus on specific cycles of liturgical resources demonstrates their commitment to providing timely and relevant content for their audience, reinforcing their position in the Christian publishing market.


20. CrownJewlz

  • Website: crownjewlz.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Ashland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: crownjewlz

CrownJewlz, established in 2012 and based in Ashland, Ohio, is a family-owned business that specializes in children's book publishing and educational materials. The company is recognized for its commitment to quality, producing a variety of products that cater to parents and educators. Their offerings include children's books, educational kits, and stationery items, all designed to support learning and organization. With a manufacturing facility and a domestic distribution center, CrownJewlz ensures that their products meet high standards. The founder has a notable history in the printing and publishing industry, having previously built a successful company. This experience informs their current operations, which focus on affordability and accessibility in children's educational products. CrownJewlz also emphasizes its status as a women-owned business, contributing to its unique market position.


21. Hess Print Solutions

  • Website: hessprintsolutions.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Brimfield, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, India 14%
  • Latest funding: October 2017
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: hess-print-solutions

Hess Print Solutions, founded in 2006 and based in Brimfield, Ohio, is a corporate entity specializing in printing and publishing services. The company focuses on delivering high-quality printed materials, particularly textbooks and promotional catalogs. Their clientele primarily consists of educational institutions and businesses that require professional printing services to support their educational and marketing initiatives. With a workforce of approximately 119 employees, Hess Print Solutions has established itself as a reliable partner in the educational sector, providing essential resources for learning and development. The company operates with a significant presence in the United States, complemented by a smaller team in India, reflecting a strategic approach to meet the needs of its clients effectively.


22. Onstage Publications


Onstage Publications, founded in 2001 and based in Dayton, Ohio, is a private company that specializes in managed program books and digital programs tailored for performing arts organizations. With a team of 21 employees, they provide comprehensive services that simplify the publishing process, allowing clients to focus on their core missions. Their offerings include managed advertising sales, which help organizations maximize revenue while offsetting print costs. Onstage Publications has built a reputation over the years, serving thousands of clients across the nation, and is recognized for its innovative approach to program book publishing. Their digital platform, Audience Access, was one of the first in the industry, showcasing their commitment to evolving with technological advancements. This focus on the performing arts sector positions them as a key player in a specialized niche of the publishing industry.


23. Lachina Creative

  • Website: lachina.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: lachinacreative

Lachina Creative, based in Cleveland, Ohio, is a creative agency that specializes in animation, publishing, and graphic design services. Established in 1989, the company has over three decades of experience in the industry. Initially focused on technical and scientific content, Lachina has built a reputation for its editorial precision and artistic talent. They manage and produce all aspects of publishing projects, including print and digital formats, cover design, layout, and developmental editing. Their portfolio includes work for notable clients such as the American Bar Association and educational institutions. Although they have branched out into animation and graphic design, their commitment to high-quality educational content remains a core aspect of their operations. Lachina Creative continues to serve a variety of clients, providing tailored solutions that enhance communication and marketing efforts.



Book Publishing Insights: Key Companies in Ohio


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Dreamscape MediaHolland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502010Corporate
Barbour Publishing, Inc.Uhrichsville, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501981Private
Highlights for ChildrenColumbus, Ohio, United States (USA)201-5001946Private
Author Academy ElitePowell, Ohio, United States (USA)501-10002014Private
Stenhouse PublishersColumbus, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501994Private
Baker & Taylor Publisher ServicesAshland, Ohio, United States (USA)51-2002017Private
OverDriveCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)501-10001986Private Equity
Beauty From Ashes, LLCDayton, Ohio, United States (USA)1-102018Private
Christian Editing and DesignCincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502009Private
FindawaySolon, Ohio, United States (USA)51-2002004Corporate
The Early BirdYellow Springs, Ohio, United States (USA)1-101989Private
Igniting SoulsPowell, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502003Private
Bayard TeleservicesDayton, Ohio, United States (USA)51-2001979Private
Apex Solutions LTDDublin, Ohio, United States (USA)501-10001998Private
48 Hour BooksTwinsburg, Ohio, United States (USA)51-2001984Private
Digitalia PublishingLondon, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502007Private
LEAP Publishing Services, Inc.Canton, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501993Private
Igniting SoulsPowell, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502003Private
CSS Publishing CompanyLima, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501970Private
CrownJewlzAshland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502012Family Owned
Hess Print SolutionsBrimfield, Ohio, United States (USA)201-5002006Corporate
Onstage PublicationsDayton, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502001Private
Lachina CreativeCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)51-2001989Private


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