Legal Definitions - Stationers' Company

The Stationers' Company was an organization of stationers and their successors that was established in London in 1557. It was given the responsibility of censoring the press by the Privy Council. This company was also the first holder of the rights that we now associate with copyright.

For example, if a writer wanted to publish a book during the time of the Stationers' Company, they would have to get permission from the company. The company would then have the right to print and sell the book, and the writer would receive a portion of the profits.

The Stationers' Company played an important role in regulating the printing industry and protecting the rights of authors. It ensured that only approved books were published and that authors were fairly compensated for their work.