Trinity University Press Faces Closure: What This Means for Readers and Writers

This week, Trinity University Press announced plans to shut down by December 2026. This news sent ripples through the local publishing scene. It’s a tough break for a press known for its focus on Texas and Southwest culture.

Megan Mustain, Trinity University’s Provost, shared the news in an internal message. She discussed the necessary steps to wind things down, including stopping new book acquisitions. The goal is to finish existing projects and help current authors transition their works to other publishers.

Financial issues have plagued the press. The costs of producing and promoting books exceeded what it earned. Mustain explained that the university had to foot the bill year after year, despite attempts to cut expenses.

This isn’t the first time Trinity University Press has faced closure. Founded in 1961, it gained a strong reputation, publishing over 100 titles in its early years. However, it ceased operations in 1989, only to revive in the early 2000s with help from a $2.9 million grant. This resurgence brought notable authors like Sandra Cisneros and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta into its fold.

Recently, the press has relied on support from various organizations, including the El Paso Museum of Art Foundation. However, Mustain pointed out the sustainability challenges, stating that ongoing university investments in education were taking precedence. In the face of rising operational costs, officials deemed the press’s future grim.

The closure process will take about 16 months. The press team, which has eight members, will receive support to find new job opportunities. Mustain reassured her commitment to assisting them during this transition.

As we look at the landscape of publishing, many small presses are struggling. A 2022 survey by the Association of American Publishers revealed that over 30% of independent publishers reported lower sales, emphasizing a challenging environment. The rise of digital formats and shifting consumer preferences continue to impact traditional publishing methods.

With this closure, there’s a bittersweet sense of nostalgia and loss for the stories and perspectives that will no longer be shared by Trinity University Press. The press has played a significant role in documenting Texas’s unique history and culture, making its absence notably felt.

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