Book publishers are companies or organizations that produce and distribute books. They work with authors to edit, design, and print manuscripts, turning them into finished products. Publishers also handle marketing and sales, helping to get books into bookstores and online platforms. There are different types of book publishers, including traditional publishers, independent publishers, and self-publishing platforms. Traditional publishers often have more resources and can offer authors advances, while independent publishers may focus on niche markets. Self-publishing allows authors to retain full control over their work, but they must manage all aspects of the publishing process themselves.