How to Develop an Effective Press List

Please note: The Arts Council is happy to assist you in developing media lists and can share our lists with Local Arts Councils and General Support groups.

1. Include all major newspapers in your area and major weeklies, regardless of the circulation. Make sure your list includes ethnic, African-American, Latino and women’s weeklies.
2. Research (on the Web) state, local and specialty publications, including magazines, e-zines, and trade publications that might be interested in your project.
3. Include television and radio stations with news and current event talk shows. For broadcast news shows, send a release to the specific reporter covering your issue or to the producer. Televisions often have community calendars, providing free listings for non profit groups.
4. Monitor your local and statewide newspapers to keep an updated list of reporters covering arts and culture. Look for the bylines and add these names to your press list. Update your lists before each use.
5. Add the statewide Associated Press to your media lists for major announcements or events with statewide interest or significance.
6. Include college, university and community newspapers, women’s and minority organizations’ newsletters, local libraries, and bookstores.
7. Include other cultural organizations that might be interested in your event. Make sure to reciprocate if your event is included in their e-newsletter or Web site.
8. Contact the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters or the North Carolina Press Association for a list of media.