Publishing Support for Local Historians & Genealogists

Many historians and genealogists reach a point where their research deserves to exist as a properly produced printed volume — something durable, readable, and suitable for libraries, archives, family members, or local societies.

Rowan Tree Research & Publishing provides a bespoke publishing support service for individuals and small groups who have already completed their research and written their text, but who would prefer not to wrestle with the technical and administrative side of book production. This service is particularly suited to:

• Local and parish histories 
• Family and surname studies 
• Transcriptions of archival material 
• Source books and research compilations 
• Publications intended for limited or specialist circulation

The emphasis is on clarity, accuracy of presentation, and traditional standards, rather than commercial publishing or mass distribution.

This is a one-to-one service, not a production line.

You will work directly with someone who understands historical and genealogical publishing, rather than with a call centre or automated system. Projects are taken on selectively, ensuring appropriate attention is given to each book.

There is no requirement to purchase large print runs, and no pressure to publish unless the project is genuinely ready.

All projects begin with a free, no-obligation consultation of up to one hour.

This allows us to discuss:

• The nature and scope of your project 
• Intended readership and use 
• Physical format (size, binding, paper type) 
• Layout preferences 
• Print quantities and approximate costs 
• Realistic timescales 

The consultation is intended to give you clarity and confidence, whether or not you decide to proceed.

You provide:

• A completed manuscript, supplied as a single digital document (e.g. Word) 
• Any images, maps, or tables you wish to include 
• Any specific preferences for layout or appearance

Your manuscript should be finalised before production begins.

⚠️ Important note:
This service does not include proofreading, copy-editing, or fact-checking. The text will be published as supplied, aside from formatting and structural consistency.

Your text will be professionally formatted for print, including:

• Page layout and typography suitable for historical works 
• Consistent treatment of headings, footnotes, tables, and illustrations 
• Clear, readable design appropriate for long-form reference use

The goal is a book that is practical, legible, and durable, rather than visually flashy.

I will ensure the correct preparation of front matter, including:

• Title page 
• Copyright page 
• ISBN and imprint information (where applicable) 
• Table of contents 
• Any required publication statements

This ensures your book conforms to recognised publishing standards and is suitable for library or archive deposit.

A suitable cover will be arranged, taking into account:

• The nature of the work and its audience 
• Traditional design conventions for historical publications 
• Print specifications and durability 

You will have input into the final appearance, including title layout and imagery.

I will:

• Arrange printing with an appropriate UK printer 
• Prepare print-ready files 
• Oversee technical aspects of production 
• Arrange delivery of finished copies directly to you 

You retain full control over how the books are distributed.

This service does not include retail sales, marketing, or distribution.

Most clients distribute their books via:

• Local history societies 
• Talks or events 
• Direct sales to interested readers 
• Deposits in local libraries or archives 

You are free to price, sell, or give away your book as you choose.

• You retain full copyright in your work 
• No rights are claimed over your text or research 
• You may republish, revise, or reprint your work independently 

Rowan Tree Research & Publishing acts solely as a service provider, not a rights-holding publisher.

After the free consultation, you will receive:

• A clear description of the services to be provided 
• Transparent pricing 
• No obligation to proceed 

Costs vary depending on length, complexity, and print requirements, but are always discussed in advance.

No. Proofreading, copy-editing, and fact-checking are not included. Your manuscript should be final before submission.

Generally, no. This service is designed for completed or near-completed works. However, this can be discussed during the free consultation.

If appropriate, an ISBN can be arranged and included. This will be discussed during consultation, as not all projects require one.

You do. You retain full copyright and control over your work at all times.

No. This is a bespoke publishing support service, not a mass-market vanity press. There are no sales targets, marketing packages, or compulsory add-ons.

Print runs can be very small. The most appropriate quantity will be discussed during consultation.

Yes. The formatting and front matter are prepared to recognised standards suitable for library or archive deposit.

Yes. Revised or reprinted editions can be arranged once the initial project has been completed.

Timescales vary depending on manuscript length, complexity, and print schedules. This will be discussed during the consultation.

If you have written a local history, genealogical study, or source book and would like to discuss turning it into a printed volume, please get in touch to arrange your free one-hour consultation.