SAN JOSE, CA. December 18th, 2025 — Storytime Publishers has observed a significant increase in requests for professionally illustrated children’s books, reflecting growing attention to human-created artwork in the market. The company attributes this trend to rising concerns over AI-generated illustrations in children’s literature.
According to Storytime Publishers, inquiries for custom illustrations and full-service picture-book production have grown steadily throughout 2025, with a notable spike in the last two quarters. Many submissions come from first-time authors seeking consistent, high-quality illustrations that align with their stories’ tone and themes.
“Clients are prioritizing artwork with personality, emotional nuance, and consistency,” said a senior illustration coordinator at Storytime Publishers. “Our teams are responding to these requests with expanded illustration services and enhanced author-illustrator collaboration.”
The company reports that many authors initially tested AI-generated imagery but returned to professional illustration services due to challenges in achieving cohesive, story-aligned visuals. Storytime Publishers’ illustration teams provide multiple concept rounds, character development sketches, color scripting, and page-by-page composition planning to meet these needs.
Expansion of Illustration Services
In response to the increased demand, Storytime Publishers has strengthened its illustration department. New illustrators have been added to the team, additional art-direction checkpoints implemented, and communication processes between authors and illustrators enhanced. These initiatives aim to support authors in producing visually consistent and compelling children’s books suitable for retail, schools, and libraries.
Market Implications
The trend toward professional illustration also reflects broader concerns in the children’s book industry. Educators and librarians increasingly review illustration sources to ensure quality, cultural sensitivity, and age-appropriate content. Storytime Publishers reports a growing number of requests from authors intending to submit books for school and library distribution.
Looking Ahead
Storytime Publishers expects demand for human-created illustrations to continue rising in 2026. The company plans to maintain and expand its illustration services to accommodate the evolving market while supporting authors in delivering visually cohesive and engaging children’s literature.
ENDS