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Texas Reading Club Manual 25
• Public service announcements for radio
• Publicity letters for newspapers, schools, and city officials
Press Releases
Press releases follow a standard format. For most media outlets, they do not need to be
elaborate. Most community newspaper editors want "just the facts." Press releases must,
however, include enough information to attract interest and sound newsworthy. What you write
may encourage the editor to assign a reporter to cover your program, in which case the reporter
will call for more details. In larger communities, the newspaper may only list the basic facts.
Newspapers in small communities often print the entire press release as a "news" story and may
even print a photograph if one is included. Digital photos are often acceptable if they are of high
enough resolution to be useable. Review each newspaper’s policy about the required file format
and resolution. Follow these tips for successful press releases.
Space in newspapers is usually limited. Learn each media outlet’s deadlines and send the press
release on time or a little early. Generally, it’s first-come, first-served for available space, unless
your press release attracts someone’s attention. Here are some guidelines for preparing press
releases.
• Use simple sentences, straightforward language, and short paragraphs.
• Put the most important information first and include additional information further in the
press release, to be used if space permits.
• Accuracy is important! Double-check spelling and grammar, the date and time of the
event, the address, and the phone number. Ask someone to proofread your press release.
• Submit regular press releases for individual programs throughout the summer. A single
press release for an entire series of programs may be overlooked or set aside by the
target audience.
• Print your press release on library letterhead.
• Double-space all releases that are submitted on paper.
• Limit the release to one page or less.
• Attach a Texas Reading Club flyer to your press release.
• Include contact information so the media will know how to reach you for more
information or to cover your program in more detail.
The first paragraph of a press release is the lead and it sets the stage for the message. Make your
point quickly and grab the readers’ attention!
The 2006 Texas Reading Club, “Reading: The Sport of Champions!” provides
opportunities for children of all ages to enjoy reading. It begins on June 5, 2006 at the
Bluebonnet Public Library. This free program is co-sponsored by the Texas State
Library and Archives Commission and includes weekly reading activities and events.
Add details in the next paragraph and, if possible, include a human-interest angle or a quote. It
is appropriate to “put words” in your director’s mouth by providing a quote.