Being P resent Being R eliable

Today: May 4, 2015 Example press release Logo Contact person/Date Headline Statement Lead Link to more information Boilerplate

Do’s and Don’ts Do’s: Do select a spokesperson Do read the publication before pitching Do understand that everything is not newsworthy Do find the appropriate reporter Simplify your language and avoid the use of complex or vague industry jargon Do respond quickly to media inquiries and s—their time is of the essence

Don’ts Don’t SPAM! Never harass a reporter. Don’t sent paragraphs upon paragraphs of text Don’t tell a media reporter that you need to review a copy of the story before it runs Don’t do a media interview if you are not prepared for negative questions.

Library Media Reporters Local feature reporters = NLLD coverage, policymaker library visits Education reporters = Schools and early literacy support Technology journalists = Innovative services, ebooks, privacy issues Government/politics = Protecting library funding

Target the Right Reporters “The most creative way I’ve been pitched is with a personalized proposal that takes into account what I cover and considers why [my] readers would want to learn more.” –Steve Ladurantaye, The Globe and Mail

(University of Indiana School of Journalism)

Resources Questions? Contact Jazzy Wright, press officer, ALA Washington Office, at