About us

Archipelago Books is a not-for-profit press devoted to publishing excellent translations of classic and contemporary world literature. In our first nine years, we have brought out over eighty-five books from more than twenty-five languages.

Artistic exchange between cultures is a crucial aspect of global understanding. It has never been more important for voices from around the world to be heard in this country—our place in the world depends upon it. Sadly, less than three percent of new literature published the United States originates outside the Anglosphere. By publishing diverse and innovative literary translations we are doing what we can to change this lamentable circumstance and to broaden the American literary landscape.

We are always striving to find groundbreaking literary voices that simply would not be heard in the States without Archipelago. While our efforts, especially those of our remarkable translators and authors, have been recognized by numerous literary awards, our books often explore largely unknown and forgotten locales—the Spanish Basque Country, the Chukchi lands of Siberia, the scrublands of South Africa, war-torn Lebanon— and allow our readers to see these places through the eyes of the people who live there.

We are devoted to the highest quality of design and to printing our books on the finest materials available. Archipelago books are unmistakable, you will enjoy holding them in your hands.

Archipelago is working in partnership with like-minded organizations here and abroad, hosting events and readings for our authors and translators. We are deeply grateful for the generous support of foundations, international cultural organizations, and the vital contributions of individual donors. The community around Archipelago is growing, thanks to the enthusiasm of booksellers, educators, librarians, our remarkable translators, and our devoted readers. Without you, we would not be able to continue to publish these important books. We thank you all.