Illinois, home to literary icons and vibrant creative communities, is an ideal place for aspiring and established authors to bring their books to life. From bustling Chicago publishing houses to boutique self-publishing services in small towns, the state offers a diverse range of book publishing services tailored to meet every author’s needs. Whether you’re writing your first memoir, a niche nonfiction guide, or the next great American novel, finding the right publishing partner is key.
In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into each book publishing company in Illinois—what they offer, who they’re for, how much they cost, and how to choose the right one. We’ll also spotlight some top-rated publishers and self-publishing services throughout the state.
🧭 Understanding the Book Publishing Landscape in Illinois
Book publishing has undergone a significant transformation in the past two decades. While traditional publishers still hold sway, self-publishing, hybrid publishing, and print-on-demand services have democratized access to publication.
Types of Book Publishing Services:
- Traditional Publishing
- Manuscript submissions
- Literary agent representation
- Publisher bears the cost, but retains rights and royalties
- Manuscript submissions
- Self-Publishing
- Author funds the publishing
- Full control over rights, design, and royalties
- Author funds the publishing
- Hybrid Publishing
- Mix of traditional and self-publishing
- Shared costs and responsibilities
- Mix of traditional and self-publishing
- Vanity Presses
- Author pays for everything, but often lacks marketing or distribution
- Often seen as predatory—be cautious
- Author pays for everything, but often lacks marketing or distribution
🏙️ Why Choose Illinois for Book Publishing?
Illinois is a cultural hub, especially in cities like Chicago, Evanston, and Naperville. It offers access to:
- Established publishing houses and independent presses
- Experienced editors, designers, and marketers
- Writers’ workshops and networking groups
- Bookstores and indie distribution channels
- Events like the Printers Row Lit Fest—the Midwest’s largest literary festival
For Midwestern authors, publishing locally can mean personal attention, regional relevance, and easier collaboration.
🏢 Top Traditional Book Publishing Services in Illinois
1. University of Chicago Press – Chicago, IL
One of the most prestigious academic presses in the U.S., UChicago Press is known for publishing scholarly works, reference books, and nonfiction titles. While competitive, it provides excellent editing, global distribution, and marketing support.
Best For: Academics, nonfiction authors, and intellectual works.
2. Agate Publishing – Evanston, IL
Agate specializes in business, food, and African-American literature. They also have imprints for self-help and memoirs. Agate combines editorial quality with a boutique publishing experience.
Best For: Business authors, memoir writers, and nonfiction.
3. Chicago Review Press – Chicago, IL
An independent publisher known for bold and compelling nonfiction books. Their titles cover history, music, film, pop culture, and children’s books.
Best For: Thought-provoking nonfiction and educational titles.
✍️ Best Self-Publishing Services in Illinois
For authors who want creative control, self-publishing is often the best route. These Illinois-based companies offer editing, layout, cover design, ISBN acquisition, and distribution through Amazon, IngramSpark, and more.
1. Riley Infinity – Illinois-Based Nationwide Service
Riley Infinity is a full-service self-publishing and creative consulting agency based in Illinois, helping indie authors turn their manuscripts into polished, market-ready books. Their offerings include developmental editing, formatting, custom cover design, author branding, metadata optimization, and both eBook and print distribution. With a hands-on, boutique-style approach, Riley Infinity supports both first-time writers and seasoned professionals.
Standout Feature: Personalized author coaching and one-on-one publishing support—ideal for authors seeking a guided, empowering publishing experience.
2. BookBaby (Illinois satellite office)
Though headquartered in New Jersey, BookBaby has local offices and experts in Illinois. They offer full-service self-publishing for print and eBooks—editing, cover design, ISBNs, global distribution, and marketing add-ons.
Standout Feature: Transparent pricing with no royalties taken.
3. Ampersand Book Studio – Chicago, IL
A design-forward independent publishing service that helps authors produce beautiful, professional-quality books. Services include cover and interior design, typesetting, proofreading, and marketing strategy.
Best For: Authors who want high design value and premium feel.
4. Author Solutions (Parent Company of Xlibris and iUniverse)
With a significant presence in Illinois, Author Solutions operates multiple self-publishing imprints. Services range from basic publishing packages to extensive marketing and publicity services.
Watch Out: Pricing can vary widely. Research thoroughly to avoid paying for unneeded extras.
🤝 What to Expect When Working with a Publisher in Illinois
Here’s a typical step-by-step process of what it’s like to work with a book publishing service in Illinois:
📄 1. Manuscript Submission or Consultation
- Traditional: Submit a query or proposal (often via a literary agent)
- Self-Publishing: Book a consultation or submit a draft for a quote
✍️ 2. Editing and Proofreading
- Developmental editing
- Line editing
- Proofreading
🎨 3. Design and Layout
- Custom cover design
- Typography, interior formatting
- ISBN registration and barcode creation
🖨️ 4. Printing and Distribution
- Print-on-demand or offset printing
- Listings on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Ingram, Bookshop.org
📣 5. Marketing and Promotion
- Press releases
- Book launch events (local bookstores, libraries)
- Social media promotion
- Book signings and festivals (e.g., Chicago Book Expo)
💸 Book Publishing Costs in Illinois
Traditional publishing typically costs authors nothing, but royalties are low (5%–15%), and rights are often signed over.
Self-publishing and hybrid publishing costs vary widely:
| Service | Price Range |
| Basic Formatting & eBook | $300–$800 |
| Professional Cover Design | $300–$700 |
| Editing (Full Service) | $800–$3,000 |
| Print-on-Demand Setup | $0–$250 |
| Full-Service Publishing Packages | $1,500–$6,000 |
| Marketing/PR Packages | $500–$5,000+ |
Local Illinois providers often offer bundled packages that reduce costs and ensure consistent quality.
🏆 Tips for Choosing the Right Publishing Service in Illinois
✅ 1. Define Your Goals
Are you publishing for legacy, revenue, or brand building? That will shape whether you go traditional or self-publishing.
✅ 2. Check Their Portfolio
Review previously published books—do they match your desired style, quality, and genre?
✅ 3. Ask for Transparent Pricing
Get detailed quotes and beware of hidden fees or vague “marketing” promises.
✅ 4. Read Reviews and Get References
Look for third-party reviews or ask for referrals from past clients.
✅ 5. Visit In Person (if possible)
Illinois publishers often welcome local authors to their studios for in-person consultations. This allows better collaboration and builds trust.
📍 Notable Illinois Writing and Publishing Resources
- Chicago Writers Association – Networking and educational resources
- Illinois Authors Directory – Promote your book post-publication
- Chicago Public Library Indie Author Project – Get your eBook into public libraries
- Printers Row Lit Fest – Great exposure and networking for local authors
- Independent Bookstore Network – Places like The Book Cellar and Women & Children First support local authors
✨ Spotlight: Local Success Stories
- Sarah Paretsky, known for her bestselling V.I. Warshawski detective novels, has long championed the Chicago literary scene.
- Marcus Sakey, a thriller author from Chicago, self-published his first book and later signed with Dutton Penguin.
- Emily Graslie, former Field Museum Chief Curiosity Correspondent, recently published a nature-themed book with the help of Illinois-based collaborators.
📚 Final Thoughts
Absolutely. Whether you’re aiming for traditional prestige or the freedom of self-publishing, Illinois offers a wealth of book publishing services backed by skilled professionals, a strong literary culture, and opportunities for exposure.
From the polished corridors of academic presses in Hyde Park to the indie-friendly studios in Evanston and Springfield, Illinois is a hidden gem for authors who want a collaborative, community-based, and effective publishing experience.
So if your manuscript is ready—or even if it’s just a spark of an idea—it might be time to connect with a publishing service near you. You don’t have to go it alone. Illinois is ready to help you turn your words into a work of art.
