If you’re considering publishing a nonfiction book, you’ve probably come across two key players in the industry: literary agents and publishers.
But what exactly do they do? And more importantly — do you need one or both?
Understanding the difference between a literary agent and a publisher can help you make informed decisions about your publishing journey — whether you’re aiming for traditional publication or exploring hybrid or self-publishing options.
At Book Publishing LLC, we believe every author deserves clarity when it comes to the publishing landscape. In this article, we’ll break down:
- What a literary agent does (and doesn’t do)
- What a publisher actually contributes
- When you might need one — or both
- How Book Publishing LLC supports authors at every stage of the process
Let’s dive in.
👤 What Does a Literary Agent Do?
A literary agent acts as your representative in the publishing world. Their job is to sell your book to publishers and negotiate the best possible deal on your behalf.
Here’s what a good agent typically does:
✅ Represents You in Negotiations
Agents handle contract negotiations with publishers, ensuring that you get fair terms, including advances, royalties, and rights management.
✅ Guides Your Career
Experienced agents offer strategic advice on what to write next, how to position your book, and which markets are most receptive.
✅ Acts as a Gatekeeper
Agents filter out unsuitable publishers and only submit your work to those who are likely to be interested.
✅ Helps Shape Your Proposal
Many agents provide editorial feedback to strengthen your proposal before submission.
However, agents don’t:
- Guarantee publication
- Edit your manuscript entirely
- Market your book directly to readers
- Replace the need for an audience or platform
They serve as a bridge — especially important if you’re pursuing traditional publishing.
🏢 What Does a Publisher Do?
A publisher is responsible for bringing your book to market. This includes editing, design, printing, distribution, and marketing — though the level of support varies depending on the type of publisher.
Here’s what a traditional publisher typically handles:
✅ Editorial Development
Publishers assign editors to refine your content, ensuring it meets market expectations.
✅ Design & Production
They oversee cover design, interior layout, formatting, and printing.
✅ Distribution
Traditional publishers have access to major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores through established distribution channels.
✅ Marketing Support
Some publishers allocate marketing budgets, but often expect authors to contribute to promotional efforts.
✅ Sales & Rights Management
They manage bulk sales, audiobook licensing, translation rights, and other revenue streams.
However, publishers also:
- Retain significant control over your book’s direction
- Take a large percentage of profits
- May delay release dates due to internal schedules
- Often expect authors to build their own platform
In short, publishers bring structure and reach — but not always creative freedom or fast timelines.
🔍 Key Differences Between Agents and Publishers
| Feature | Literary Agent | Publisher |
| Role | Represents the author | Produces and distributes the book |
| Income Model | Commission-based (typically 10–15%) | Royalty-based or profit-driven |
| Focus | Selling your book to the right publisher | Turning your manuscript into a finished product |
| Contract Management | Yes | No — handled by the agent |
| Editorial Input | Limited — usually early-stage feedback | Full editorial process |
| Marketing Responsibility | None — refers to publisher | Some marketing, but often shared with the author |
| Audience Building | Not required — but helpful | Publisher may require proof of audience |
While agents focus on selling your book and managing contracts, publishers take over once the deal is done.
Think of the agent as your advocate during the sale, and the publisher as your partner in production and distribution.
📌 When You Need One or Both
So, when should you seek out an agent — and when is a publisher enough?
✅ You Need an Agent If:
- You’re pursuing traditional publishing with major houses like HarperCollins, Penguin Random House, or Simon & Schuster.
- You want professional guidance through the complex submission process.
- You’re seeking an advance or multi-book deal.
- You lack direct access to publishers or decision-makers.
✅ You Might Not Need an Agent If:
- You plan to self-publish or use a hybrid model.
- Your book is niche, educational, or targeted toward a specific industry.
- You already have a strong personal brand and direct access to your audience.
- You prefer more creative control and faster time-to-market.
If you’re self-publishing or working with a full-service provider like Book Publishing LLC, you may not need either — and can instead rely on professional editorial and marketing support from your publishing partner.
🎯 Conclusion
The roles of a literary agent and a publisher are distinct but complementary.
An agent helps you navigate the path to traditional publishing — while a publisher brings your book to life and gets it into the hands of readers.
However, many authors today are choosing paths that bypass both — opting instead for hybrid publishing, self-publishing, or working with full-service publishing partners like Book Publishing LLC.
Whether you choose to work with an agent, a publisher, or go it alone, understanding these roles will help you make smarter decisions and protect your interests.
Ready to publish your nonfiction book — with or without an agent or traditional publisher?
At Book Publishing LLC, we help authors bring their ideas to life through professional writing, editing, design, and marketing services — no matter which publishing path you choose.
From refining your manuscript to designing your cover and launching your book, we’re here to support your journey.
👉 Contact us today to learn how we can help you publish your book with confidence.