At Cold River Press, we are passionate about the transformative power of literature. As an independent publishing company, we have been fostering the voices of talented writers since our inception in 1982. With a commitment to excellence and a love for the written word, we strive to create a vibrant platform for literary expression and discovery.
Our Beginnings: Neural Impulse Publications
Cold River Press has a rich history that traces back to our early days as Neural Impulse Publications. Founded in 1982, Neural Impulse Publications initially focused on producing Primal Urge Magazine, The Sacramento Free Press, Sacramento Interviews, and Osmose. During this period, we also published a variety of small poetry chapbooks and broadsides. Our dedication to promoting diverse voices and literary experimentation began to take shape.
Pioneering Electronic Publishing
In 1984, Primal Urge Magazine blazed a trail as one of the pioneers in electronic publishing. We utilized a hybrid mixture of Mac and Osborne computers, embracing the power of the emerging computerized design platform. This forward-thinking approach allowed us to publish electronically long before the desktop revolution took hold. It was an exciting time, as we witnessed the potential of technology to shape the future of literature.
The Birth of Cold River Press
In 1989, we embarked on a new chapter, renaming ourselves Cold River Press. The name “Cold River” symbolized the flow of electronic data through the budding realm of cyberspace, known as “The Internet.” We fully embraced this digital era and began designing and publishing exclusively in electronic formats. Our mission was to explore the vast possibilities offered by this evolving platform and make literature accessible to a wider audience.
Embracing Innovation: Digital Printing and Art Reproduction
Throughout the early 1990s, Cold River Press was at the forefront of technological advancements in publishing. We utilized digital presses to produce small-run books of poetry and prose, allowing us to efficiently bring captivating works to life. Additionally, we ventured into large-format printing, enabling us to reproduce full-color art images. This breakthrough made art reproduction more affordable for artists, as they could print only a handful of their works instead of committing to large print runs.
A Dual Path: Commercial Work and Independent Publishing
Being a small press publisher during those times came with financial challenges. To support our independent publishing endeavors, Cold River Press embarked on commercial work for numerous large corporations from 1990 to 2005. We provided marketing services and designed booths for trade shows, collaborating with clients ranging from Bonnie Belle Cosmetics to Round Table Pizza. Our expertise extended to creating visually striking booths for large shows in Las Vegas and San Francisco.
Revitalizing the Publishing Journey
In 2006, we redirected our focus, investing our time, energy, and resources into developing Cold River Press into a thriving small press publishing company. This dedicated effort allowed us to publish high-quality books from both established and emerging poets and writers. We expanded our reach internationally while nurturing our national base of readers and authors. The works published by Cold River Press have received numerous nominations and awards, including the prestigious Pushcart Prize, the Hugo Award, and the John W. Campbell Award.
Moving Forward: Our Vision
At Cold River Press, we believe in the power of literature to inspire, challenge, and connect us. Our passion lies in discovering and amplifying voices that illuminate the human experience, celebrate nature’s wonders, and delve into the realms of imagination and thought. We are committed to providing a platform for writers to express themselves authentically and for readers to explore diverse perspectives.
Join the Cold River Press Community
We invite you to embark on a literary journey with us. Delve into our carefully curated collection of books, where you will encounter extraordinary poetry, thought-provoking prose, and captivating narratives. Explore the depths of human emotions, traverse the natural world, and expand your horizons through the power of words.
Stay Connected with Cold River Press
To stay connected with us, we encourage you to explore our blog, a space where we share articles, author interviews, writing tips, and insights into the publishing industry. Engage with fellow literary enthusiasts, discover new authors, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of literature.
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