Even today, books from Rostock are known beyond the region. Alongside smaller publishers, Hinstorff is the largest and best known. Founded in the first half of the 19th century by Carl Hinstorff, the company developed into one of the most important in Mecklenburg in the early 20th century. It has remained so ever since. The publishing programme has constantly evolved. Today, Hinstorff Verlag specialises in books with a North German focus. It publishes literature, illustrated books and crime novels that attract attention both regionally and nationally. After 195 years, Hinstorff is one of the oldest publishing houses in the German-speaking world.