Globe Pequot Publishing Group: Evolution of an American Independent Publisher
The landscape of American independent publishing has undergone significant shifts in recent years, most notably seen in the transformation of the Globe Pequot Publishing Group. Formerly known as the Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group, this established entity has navigated a complex history of acquisitions, brand changes, and strategic divestments to maintain its position in the trade book market.
Founded in 1949 by Walter Rowman and Arthur W. Littlefield, the company has spent over seven decades building a diverse portfolio. While it once operated as a massive umbrella for both academic and trade titles, recent structural changes have refined its focus toward regional and interest-based trade books.
Previous wordmark as Rowman & Littlefield, used until 2024
Key Facts
- Founded: 1949 by Walter Rowman and Arthur W. Littlefield.
- Headquarters: Essex, Connecticut, U.S.
- Current Focus: Regional and interest-based trade books.
- Major Transition: Sold academic and professional divisions to Bloomsbury Publishing in May 2024.
- Distribution: Primarily handled by Simon & Schuster Distribution Services (US) and NBN International (UK).
A History of Growth and Transformation
The company's modern structure began to take shape in 1988 when the University Press of America acquired Rowman & Littlefield, adopting the name for its holding company. Over the following decades, the group expanded through strategic acquisitions, including the purchase of Globe Pequot Press in 2014.
A significant milestone in the company's history is its support for political science education. The group sponsors the Rowman & Littlefield Award in Innovative Teaching, the only national teaching award in political science in the United States, awarded annually by the American Political Science Association to recognize advancements in pedagogy.
The 2024 Restructuring
On May 29, 2024, the company underwent a major strategic pivot. It sold its academic and professional publishing business to Bloomsbury Publishing. This sale included several notable imprints such as Lexington Books, Applause Books, and Backbeat Books. Because the Rowman & Littlefield trademark was part of this sale, the holding company officially changed its name to The Globe Pequot Publishing Group, retaining the name of one of its prominent trade imprints.
Further changes followed in late 2024, including the sale of the school publishing business, Sundance Newbridge, to Lerner Publishing. Additionally, the company announced the closure of its former distributor, National Book Network, with distribution duties transitioning to Simon & Schuster Distribution Services in the second half of 2025.
Current Publishing Imprints
Today, the Globe Pequot Publishing Group manages a wide array of imprints—specialized brands within a larger publishing house that focus on specific genres or audiences. Their current portfolio includes:
- Astragal Press
- Down East Books
- Eclipse Press
- Falcon Guides
- Gooseberry Patch
- Lyons Press
- Muddy Boots
- North Country Press
- Pineapple Press
- Riverbend Publishing
- Sheridan House
- Stackpole Books
- Union Park Press
- Waterford Press
- TwoDot Books
- Prometheus Books
Company Overview Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin Country | United States |
| Founding Year | 1949 |
| Primary Location | Essex, Connecticut |
| Key Imprint | Globe Pequot Press |
| Distribution Partners | Simon & Schuster, NBN International |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the company change its name from Rowman & Littlefield?
The name change occurred because the Rowman & Littlefield trademark and its academic/professional business were sold to Bloomsbury Publishing in 2024. The holding company adopted the name of its retained trade imprint, The Globe Pequot Publishing Group.
What happened to the academic division of the company?
The academic and professional publishing division was sold to Bloomsbury Publishing in May 2024. This included imprints like Lexington Books and Bernan Press.
What kind of books does Globe Pequot Publishing Group publish now?
The group focuses on trade books, specifically those centered around regional interests and various niche subject areas through its many specialized imprints.
Who handles the distribution of their books?
Following the closure of National Book Network, the company moved its distribution to Simon & Schuster Distribution Services in the United States, with NBN International handling the UK.
Is Rowman & Littlefield International still an active entity?
Since 2013, Rowman & Littlefield International has operated as an editorially independent affiliate based in London, focusing on academic books in Philosophy, Politics & International Relations, and Cultural Studies.