A small, charming, and innovative publishing house, Microcosm Publishing was founded in 1996 and over the years has developed a reputation for teaching self-empowerment, showing hidden histories, and fostering creativity. The then-distro and record-label was started by Joe Biel in his bedroom and is now based in Portland, OR. Microcosm continues to challenge conventional publishing wisdom, influencing other publishers large and small with books and bookettes about DIY skills, food, zines, and art. Microcosm constantly strives to be recognized for our spirit, creativity, and value. As a commitment to our ethics, our books are printed by union workers in the U.S. and we are moving towards all production using post-consumer papers, with vegan inks and bindings. Further, while only 25-35% of authors are women, we continue to publish about 50% books by women.