Storytime Publishers has identified a notable increase in demand for professionally illustrated children’s books, highlighting a broader shift towards human-led artwork in publishing. The company believes this trend is being driven by increasing concerns surrounding the use of AI-generated illustrations in children’s literature.
According to the publisher, requests for custom illustration and complete picture book production have risen steadily throughout 2025, with a sharp uptick recorded in the latter half of the year. Many of these enquiries are from first-time authors who are seeking illustrations that remain visually consistent and closely aligned with their storytelling.
“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 publisher reports that a number of authors initially trialled AI-generated artwork but later returned to professional illustration after encountering limitations in visual cohesion and narrative alignment. In response, Storytime Publishers offers a comprehensive illustration process, including concept development, character sketches, colour scripting and page-level design planning.
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.