NAICS 5131 - Newspaper, Periodical, Book, and Directory Publishers

This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in publishing newspapers, magazines, other periodicals, books, directories and mailing lists, and other works, such as calendars, greeting cards, and maps. These works are characterized by the intellectual creativity required in their development and are usually protected by copyright. Publishers distribute or arrange for the distribution of these works.

Publishing establishments may create the works in-house, or contract for, purchase, or compile works that were originally created by others. These works may be published in one or more formats, such as print and/or electronic form, including proprietary electronic networks or exclusively on the Internet. Establishments in this industry may print, reproduce, or offer direct access to the works themselves or may arrange with others to carry out such functions.

Establishments that both print and publish may fill excess capacity with commercial or job printing. However, the publishing activity is still considered to be the primary activity of these establishments.

• Covers publishing of newspapers, magazines, books, directories, and related printed or digital materials.
• Includes establishments that create content internally or acquire it from third parties.
• Distributes content through print, electronic formats, proprietary networks, or the Internet.
• May provide printing services as a secondary activity but publishing remains the primary focus.
• Typical size standards vary but often include small to medium-sized enterprises.
• Supports both traditional and digital media publication for diverse audiences.

• Publishing newspapers, magazines, and other periodicals.
• Producing books, directories, and mailing lists.
• Creating and distributing digital content via proprietary electronic networks or online platforms.
• Arranging printing and reproduction of published works.
• Contracting or purchasing content originally created by others.
• Designing and producing calendars, greeting cards, and maps.
• Managing copyright and intellectual property rights of published works.
• Coordinating distribution logistics for print and electronic publications.

• Newspaper publishing companies
• Magazine and periodical publishers
• Book publishing houses
• Directory and mailing list publishers
• Digital content publishing firms
• Hybrid print and electronic media publishers