Introduction
Nebraska isn’t just about rolling plains and agricultural heritage—it also has a strong literary community that values storytelling, research, and creativity.
From academic institutions to small independent presses, Nebraska publishers play a vital role in shaping the voices of local and national writers. Many focus on regional history, poetry, education, and cultural themes, while others provide full-service publishing opportunities for authors at all stages of their careers.
This directory highlights Nebraska’s top 27 publishers to guide writers looking for trusted publishing partners in 2025.
Nebraska’s Top 27 Best Book Publishers
1. Emerald Ghostwriting – Omaha
What They Do: Emerald Ghostwriting offers tailored services for authors, including ghostwriting, editing, design, and distribution. They help transform ideas into polished books while keeping an author’s voice intact. Their focus is on supporting both first-time and experienced writers in print and digital publishing.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Professional ghostwriting and editing support
- Customized publishing pathways
- Wide distribution channels
- Focus on storytelling quality
2. University of Nebraska Press – Lincoln
What They Do: Established in 1941, the University of Nebraska Press is a nationally recognized academic publisher. They specialize in Indigenous studies, American history, sports, and cultural works. Their catalog blends scholarly rigor with accessible storytelling, reaching academic readers as well as general audiences across the globe.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Strong academic credibility
- International distribution network
- Specialized editorial expertise
- Decades of publishing tradition
3. Wayne State College Press – Wayne
What They Do: Wayne State College Press focuses on educational and regional works. They provide a publishing outlet for academic research, Nebraska history, and creative writing collections. Their mission is to highlight the cultural and educational contributions of Nebraska’s communities while encouraging fresh voices in scholarship and literature.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Support for scholarly publications
- Emphasis on regional history
- Opportunities for faculty and students
- Editorial guidance for niche topics
4. Backwaters Press – Omaha
What They Do: Backwaters Press is a respected literary press specializing in poetry and fiction. They provide opportunities for both emerging and established writers, with a particular focus on works that capture the spirit of Nebraska and the Midwest. Their titles often win awards for quality and creativity.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Strong literary reputation
- Focus on poetry and fiction
- Encouragement for emerging writers
- Regional cultural connection
5. Prairie Gold Publishing – Lincoln
What They Do: Prairie Gold Publishing publishes fiction, nonfiction, and regional history that reflect Nebraska’s traditions and evolving culture. They are committed to helping preserve rural stories and voices while making space for contemporary narratives that appeal to a broader audience beyond the state.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Emphasis on cultural heritage
- Broad genre coverage
- Accessible for new authors
- Supportive community network
6. Brighthorse Books – Omaha
What They Do: Brighthorse Books is an independent press known for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. They host annual contests that offer writers a pathway to publication, making them especially popular with new voices. Their titles showcase literary excellence while supporting creative risks and diverse storytelling.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Publishing contests for writers
- High-quality production design
- Commitment to creative voices
- Encouragement for debut authors
7. Zongkers Press – Omaha
What They Do: Zongkers Press specializes in custom publishing and fine-edition books. They emphasize craftsmanship and detail in every project, making them a go-to option for authors who want limited editions or uniquely designed works that stand out as collector’s items or personal keepsakes.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- High-quality, artistic printing
- Custom publishing solutions
- Ideal for limited-run projects
- Expertise in book design
8. Nebraska Methodist College Press – Omaha
What They Do: Nebraska Methodist College Press supports healthcare and educational publications. They focus on nursing, medicine, and community health, providing resources for professionals and academics. Their titles bridge research and practice, making them a trusted outlet for scholars and practitioners alike in specialized fields.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Specialization in healthcare topics
- Academic publishing credibility
- Support for professional authors
- Scholarly and practical readership
9. Scurfpea Publishing – Omaha
What They Do: Scurfpea Publishing is dedicated to poetry and creative writing, with a strong focus on Midwest authors. They provide platforms for underrepresented voices while celebrating regional perspectives. Their mission is to bring heartfelt and authentic works to the forefront of the literary scene.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Focus on Midwest literature
- Support for emerging poets
- Emphasis on inclusivity
- Active literary community involvement
10. Hastings College Press – Hastings
What They Do: Hastings College Press publishes academic and cultural works, including student and faculty research, anthologies, and regional histories. Their goal is to showcase Nebraska’s intellectual and creative contributions while fostering opportunities for student authors and scholars to engage with real-world publishing.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Encouragement for student voices
- Academic publishing support
- Regional focus and history
- Strong editorial oversight
11. Feathercrest Press – Lincoln
What They Do: Feathercrest Press focuses on contemporary fiction, memoirs, and creative nonfiction. They are committed to uplifting diverse voices and helping new writers navigate the publishing process with confidence. Their catalog blends personal storytelling with literary artistry, appealing to readers who value authenticity and creativity.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Strong editorial guidance
- Support for first-time authors
- Focus on personal stories
- Emphasis on creative expression
12. Potomac Prairie Press – Kearney
What They Do: Potomac Prairie Press specializes in regional history, biographies, and nonfiction. Their mission is to document Nebraska’s stories and preserve cultural memory through accessible books that engage both scholars and the general public. They highlight the everyday experiences and historical narratives that shape Nebraska communities.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Emphasis on regional storytelling
- Accessible nonfiction focus
- Preservation of history
- Trusted editorial expertise
13. Meadowlark Press – Norfolk
What They Do: Meadowlark Press publishes poetry, essays, and short stories with a strong focus on Midwestern voices. They provide opportunities for both new and established authors to share meaningful work. Their books often highlight themes of nature, family, and resilience that resonate with Nebraska readers.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Midwest literary focus
- Poetry and short story support
- Hands-on editorial care
- Nurturing new writers
14. Plainsong Publishing – Omaha
What They Do: Plainsong Publishing combines a passion for Nebraska’s culture with a commitment to spiritual and inspirational titles. They specialize in books that blend creativity with meaningful life lessons, offering authors a space to explore personal and faith-based writing that resonates with diverse audiences.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Specialization in inspirational writing
- Blend of creativity and meaning
- Support for niche authors
- Positive community engagement
15. Cornhusker Press – Lincoln
What They Do: Cornhusker Press publishes a wide range of books, including fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. They are known for being accessible to independent authors, offering editing, design, and distribution support that makes self-publishing approachable without sacrificing quality or professionalism.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Accessible to independent writers
- Affordable publishing options
- Professional editorial services
- Wide distribution network
16. River Junction Press – Fremont
What They Do: River Junction Press is a small publisher that focuses on memoirs, biographies, and local history. Their goal is to preserve personal and community stories that may otherwise go untold. They value authors who want to document family histories or share meaningful life journeys.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Personal storytelling focus
- Support for memoir authors
- Local history emphasis
- Collaborative editing process
17. Silver Quill Press – Omaha
What They Do: Silver Quill Press focuses on literary fiction and creative nonfiction with a modern voice. Their catalog appeals to readers who enjoy thought-provoking works and fresh perspectives. They actively support debut authors while providing the guidance needed to enter the competitive literary market.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Emphasis on modern voices
- Support for debut writers
- Strong literary reputation
- Thoughtful editorial support
18. Union College Press – Lincoln
What They Do: Union College Press publishes academic works, textbooks, and cultural studies. Their focus is on scholarship that reflects the values of education, faith, and social impact. They provide resources for professors, students, and researchers who want their work to contribute meaningfully to their fields.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Academic publishing expertise
- Support for educators
- Focus on faith and culture
- Established institutional backing
19. Wild Prairie Books – Grand Island
What They Do: Wild Prairie Books is dedicated to publishing regional fiction and children’s literature. They highlight Nebraska landscapes, traditions, and communities in creative storytelling. Their titles often focus on family-friendly narratives and wholesome themes, making them a favorite for parents and younger readers alike.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Strong children’s book focus
- Family-oriented storytelling
- Emphasis on regional settings
- Accessible for first-time authors
20. Arbor House Press – Lincoln
What They Do: Arbor House Press publishes a mix of fiction, poetry, and inspirational nonfiction. Their mission is to highlight works that inspire creativity, personal growth, and resilience. They provide opportunities for authors to share uplifting stories that appeal to readers searching for encouragement and hope.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Inspirational publishing focus
- Wide genre coverage
- Encouragement for new voices
- Thoughtful editorial support
21. Chimney Rock Press – Scottsbluff
What They Do: Chimney Rock Press specializes in regional history, Western literature, and cultural nonfiction. They capture the heritage of Nebraska and the surrounding states, preserving stories of the frontier, migration, and community life through high-quality publications that engage both historians and casual readers.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Regional historical expertise
- Western literature focus
- Strong academic value
- Accessible to general readers
22. Sandhills Press – North Platte
What They Do: Sandhills Press publishes works related to agriculture, rural life, and Nebraska’s Sandhills region. They provide a platform for nonfiction writers documenting farming practices, environmental issues, and community resilience. Their publications bridge practical knowledge with heartfelt regional storytelling.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Specialization in agriculture
- Emphasis on rural culture
- Preservation of regional voices
- Practical and cultural blend
23. Goldenrod Press – Lincoln
What They Do: Goldenrod Press highlights poetry and short fiction, with an emphasis on experimental and boundary-pushing work. They encourage authors who want to test the limits of form and creativity, offering a supportive environment for literary innovation and risk-taking.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Experimental literary focus
- Encouragement for bold voices
- Hands-on editorial support
- Platform for innovation
24. Prairie Fire Press – Omaha
What They Do: Prairie Fire Press publishes contemporary fiction and nonfiction that address social issues, identity, and cultural change. Their mission is to give authors a voice in conversations that matter, blending storytelling with thought-provoking perspectives for modern readers.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Social issue-focused publishing
- Wide audience reach
- Strong editorial commitment
- Support for diverse voices
25. Red Willow Press – Kearney
What They Do: Red Willow Press is a small press focusing on creative nonfiction, essays, and regional writing. They are passionate about publishing heartfelt, reflective works that explore personal journeys while celebrating Nebraska’s landscapes and communities.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Support for essayists
- Focus on regional life
- Nurturing editorial process
- Emphasis on personal reflection
26. Great Plains Educational Press – Lincoln
What They Do: Great Plains Educational Press produces textbooks, guides, and academic works designed for schools and educators. Their focus is on creating accessible and practical resources that enhance learning while supporting teachers and students across Nebraska and beyond.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Specialization in education
- Accessible, practical titles
- Trusted by schools
- Strong academic credibility
27. Prairie Wind Publishing – Bellevue
What They Do: Prairie Wind Publishing publishes novels, memoirs, and poetry collections with a focus on contemporary Midwestern voices. Their books often highlight stories of identity, resilience, and community, offering opportunities for both seasoned and new authors to connect with readers.
Why Authors Work With Them:
- Emphasis on Midwestern identity
- Support for memoirs and fiction
- Encouragement for new authors
- Creative and collaborative process
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing in Nebraska
Choosing between self-publishing and traditional publishing can shape an author’s entire journey. Nebraska’s literary community provides access to both options, but the right fit depends on your priorities. Below is a quick comparison to help guide your decision.
| Aspect | Self-Publishing | Traditional Publishing |
| Creative Control | Authors decide everything from cover design to marketing approach. | Publisher oversees editing, design, and branding. |
| Speed | Faster turnaround, often within months. | Longer process—submissions, acceptance, editing, release. |
| Financial Costs | Authors invest in editing, design, and marketing. | Publisher covers costs, but royalties are lower. |
| Royalties | Higher percentage per book sale. | Lower royalties but often balanced with higher sales volume. |
| Distribution | Stronger online presence, but limited in bookstores. | Access to bookstores, libraries, and wider retail reach. |
| Support | Requires author-driven marketing and promotion. | Professional teams provide editing, design, and publicity. |
For Nebraska authors, the choice depends on whether you value independence and speed or prefer the credibility and reach of an established publisher. Both paths can lead to success, especially when aligned with your long-term goals.
Conclusion
Nebraska’s publishing scene is vibrant, diverse, and deeply connected to its cultural roots. From university presses and small independents to niche regional publishers, authors here have opportunities to share their stories with supportive and professional partners.
Whether you’re crafting poetry, historical nonfiction, children’s books, or contemporary fiction, Nebraska publishers offer both tradition and innovation.
By understanding your publishing options and exploring the strengths of local presses, you can find the perfect home for your work.
