Abstract: A method of transferring electronic equivalents (32) of published items (18) is provided wherein bar codes (116, 118) are attached on the items (18) prior to distribution to subscribers (12). The bar codes (116, 118) are scanned by a bar code reader (22), formatted into a predetermined message format compatible with network protocols and transmitted to the associated publishing authority (30). Based on the bar code information, the publisher (30) will either push the requested electronic equivalent (32) or transfer a pointer to the user (12) to a network cite containing the requested electronic equivalent (32). Alternatively, the publisher (30) can push updates of published items (32) to users (12).