Gibbs Smith: Books as Works of Art from a Historic Utah Barn
Step into the storied world of Gibbs Smith, an employee-owned independent publisher whose remarkable journey began in 1969 with a vision to create books that enrich and inspire humankind. Founded by Gibbs M. Smith and his wife Catherine in Santa Barbara, California, this distinguished publishing house has evolved from humble beginnings into a beacon of artistic and educational excellence while remaining true to its founding principles.
The company’s origin story reads like a chapter from one of its own beautifully crafted books. Using $12,000 earned from the film adaptation of his University of Utah master’s thesis on labor activist Joe Hill, Gibbs launched Peregrine Publishers after receiving encouragement from legendary publisher Alfred A. Knopf, Sr. By 1973, the company had relocated to a refurbished 1919 barn in Layton, Utah—a charming headquarters they still occupy today, where early employees once shared space with cows whose moos could be heard through the walls and over telephone calls.
Their first major publication, a seventh-grade textbook titled “Utah’s Heritage,” established what would become a cornerstone of their business—state-specific education materials that now serve 35 states across the nation, making Gibbs Smith the country’s leading publisher of state history programs. From these educational foundations, the company expanded into a diverse catalog including art books, home design references, cookbooks, children’s literature, and gift products, all while maintaining their commitment to exceptional quality and artistic integrity.
What truly distinguishes Gibbs Smith is their unwavering dedication to values beyond the bottom line. As a certified B Corporation and 100% employee-owned company since 2022, they exemplify how business can be a force for positive change. Their catalogs feature celebrated imprints including BabyLit, introducing young readers to the classics; LoveLit, creating gift products for book enthusiasts; and partnerships with independent publishers like Angel City Press and Lil’ Libros.
Though founder Gibbs Smith passed away in 2017 at age 77, his creative spirit and commitment to publishing books as works of art continues to guide the company’s 43 employees. Throughout their more than five decades of operation, Gibbs Smith has sold over 28 million books internationally and published 158 Utah authors among thousands worldwide—all while remaining proudly independent and community-focused.
At Comfort, Peace + Love, we’re honored to feature Gibbs Smith publications because they embody our founder’s belief in the transformative power of beauty, knowledge, and storytelling. Their thoughtfully crafted books do more than decorate shelves—they enrich minds, nurture creativity, and inspire readers of all ages to see the world through fresh perspectives.
