presskopior

Presskopior, meaning “press copies” in Swedish, are copies of publications that publishers distribute to members of the press and other media. They are provided for review, reporting, and publicity ahead of or around a publication date, with the aim of generating coverage and informed commentary.

The primary purpose of presskopior is to enable journalists, editors, bloggers, and broadcasters to assess the work and prepare articles, reviews, or features before the official release. Recipients are typically contacted or identified by the publisher and may receive advances, advance reading copies, or early editions. Presskopior are usually marked as review copies and often carry embargoes or publication restrictions to control timing and content.

Content and formats vary. Historically they were printed editions that could resemble the final product but contained early proofs or galley proofs. Today, many publishers also circulate electronic press copies (eARC, PDFs, or EPUBs) to speed distribution and reduce costs. Alongside the copy itself, press kits or author interview notes may be included to facilitate coverage. They are generally intended for press use only and are not for resale.

Legal and usage restrictions typically apply. Presskopior are usually non-commercial and may restrict redistribution, quotation limits, or the publication date until an embargo lifts. Some publishers require acknowledgment or credit when the material is published. The practice supports publicity strategies and can influence early reception, though it also raises considerations about editorial independence and review timelines.