Bess Press is best known as Hawaiʻi's local publisher. Since 1979, the company has produced over 300 books related to Hawaiʻi and the greater Pacific. As a leading educational publisher, the Press continues to develop curriculum and resource materials for use in schools, as well as for the greater community in popular interest themes such as children's books, memoirs, pidgin, history, gift books and more.

In support of community and literacy, the founders recently opened a boutique bookshop and community events space in Kaimuki - da Shop: books & curiosities. The bookstore features well-known Hawai'i and Oceania titles from local publishers, a rotating selection of best selling national and international titles, special interest books, and an award-winning offering of children's, middle school readers and young adult books. Located at 3565 Harding Ave., with parking available at the municipal lot across the street, da Shop also provides space for events with an ongoing calendar of experiences: keiki storytime, author talks, arts & cultural events, film screenings, workshops, educator presentations and lectures, and school field trips.