Publishing Trends to Watch: What’s Changing and What Still Matters
Publishing keeps changing, and it changes faster every year. As an author and creator, you don’t have to chase every trend—but it helps to understand what’s happening so you can make smart choices about your books, formats, and how readers find you.
Here are the publishing trends that matter most going forward, especially for independent authors, small publishers, and creators who want to build a loyal audience over time.
1) Digital Isn’t Going Anywhere
Digital reading has been growing for years, and there’s still no sign of slowing down. People love convenience. They want books they can download instantly, store on a device, and bring everywhere.
Print books are still loved—especially for children’s books, gifts, and collectors—but digital formats are now a major part of publishing. It’s smart to treat digital as a true partner to print.
eBooks vs. Print Books: Why Readers Choose Both
Print books feel real. They make beautiful gifts, and children especially love holding a physical book. But eBooks are popular because they are:
- Instant to buy and download
- Easy to carry anywhere
- Often cheaper than print
- Convenient for busy parents and travelers
- Updatable (authors can correct and improve them quickly)
The truth is, readers don’t want one or the other—they want options.
Audiobooks Keep Rising
Audiobooks are one of the biggest growth areas in publishing. Many people listen while driving, cleaning, walking, or relaxing at night. For relaxation, bedtime stories, and storytelling, audio can be a powerful way to reach more people.
2) Adult Coloring Books Are Still Growing
Adult coloring books became popular because they help people relax. Coloring is simple, soothing, and creative. It gives the mind something gentle to focus on.
Why Adult Coloring Books Feel So Good
- Stress relief
- Anxiety relief
- Better focus
- A quiet break from screens
- Simple creativity
- A calming bedtime routine
Coloring is also becoming social. People gather for coloring nights, join online groups, and share their finished pages like art.
3) Personalization and AI Are Changing Publishing
Personalization is becoming more important because readers want content that feels made for them. They want books and recommendations that match their interests—whether that’s calming themes, nature stories, funny characters, or meaningful nonfiction.
AI is one tool being used for personalization and content support. But the heart of publishing is still human. Readers don’t just want content—they want connection.
4) Social Media Is the New Bookstore Window
Today, readers discover books through social media. You don’t have to be famous—you just need to be consistent and clear about what you write and who your books are for.
- Instagram for visuals, covers, and behind-the-scenes stories
- TikTok for storytelling, quick videos, and reader reactions
- Facebook for community and local audiences
- YouTube for story readings and deeper trust-building
Recognition becomes trust, and trust becomes sales.
5) Sustainability Matters More Every Year
Readers care about the environment more than they used to. Eco-friendly printing, recycled paper, and low-waste packaging are becoming more important—especially for brands centered on nature and wildlife themes.
Digital books also support sustainability by reducing printing and shipping.
6) Self-Publishing Is Now a Real Industry
Self-publishing keeps growing because authors want control over topics, cover style, pricing, schedule, and audience. Tools keep improving, and authors can publish print books, eBooks, audiobooks, coloring books, and even interactive content.
Self-publishing isn’t “less than.” It’s simply a different path—and for many authors, it’s the best one.
7) Readers Want Community, Not Just Content
Readers aren’t just buying books. They’re following authors. They’re joining groups. They want to feel like they’re part of something meaningful.
- Book clubs
- Author Q&A events
- Live readings
- Email newsletters
- Reader groups
- Community challenges (like reading goals or coloring challenges)
When readers feel connected, they stay connected.
8) Multilingual Content Is a Big Opportunity
Multilingual content is becoming more important. Parents want bilingual books for children, teachers want resources that match their classrooms, and readers want stories in their own language.
Even translating a few titles can open entirely new audiences.
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead Is Full of Opportunity
The future of publishing is changing, but the heart of it is still the same. People want stories, comfort, knowledge, hope, and something real.
If you’re writing with purpose, you’re already ahead. Stay flexible, keep learning, and follow the trends that fit your mission.