4901.91.00 - Dictionaries and encyclopedias, and serial installments thereof

This HTS category, 4901.91.00, encompasses printed dictionaries and encyclopedias, as well as any serial installments thereof. These are defined by their primary purpose of providing comprehensive information in alphabetical order (dictionaries) or covering a wide range of subjects systematically (encyclopedias). The content can be presented in volumes, individual books, or as recurring publications intended to build a complete reference work over time.

At this level, the distinction from its sibling category 4901.99.00, also "Other," is crucial. While both fall under "Other" printed books and similar matter not specifically enumerated elsewhere in heading 4901, 4901.91.00 is specifically reserved for the defined reference works. Therefore, any printed books, brochures, leaflets, or similar printed matter that do not fit the definition of a dictionary or encyclopedia, even if informational, would likely be classified under 4901.99.00.

Within this classification, further subdivisions exist to distinguish between dictionaries and encyclopedias. The subcategories 4901.91.00.20 and 4901.91.00.40 allow for a more granular classification based on whether the printed work is primarily a dictionary (including thesauruses) or an encyclopedia. This differentiation aids in providing more precise trade statistics and ensuring accurate duty assessments.