Publication

A non-oral media text that offers information to readers through the written word and images. The information in these media messages is determined by its cultural and institutional context (like editorial staffs and the bodies of corporate ownership). Media outlets present publications for audience consumption. Advertisements are frequently featured in publications. Examples of publications include books, magazines, journals, or newspapers (in print or online). Many publications focus on specific subjects (e.g., journals featuring sociological research) and hobbies (e.g., travel). Publications target specific markets, particularly by gender (Ladies' Home Journal), age (AARP Magazine), and ethnicity (Ebony Magazine). In today's media landscape, many publications have moved from solely print environments to online as well; often, the information available in online formats is different from the offline version due to the incorporation of news updates or additional features to drive readers to the publication Web site. Some publications exist only in the online space.