Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings (loss) from continuing operations IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsAttributableToCommonStockholders This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the common stockholders. Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Class A and Common Shares, net of tax Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Net income (loss) attributable to Class A and Common Shares Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Weighted average Shares of Class A Stock and Common Stock outstanding for basic earnings (loss) per share (in millions) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of Class A Stock and Common Stock potentially issuable pursuant to stock-based compensation plans (in millions) Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Adjusted weighted average Shares of Class A Stock and Common Stock outstanding for diluted earnings (loss) per share (in millions) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Basic: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Earnings (loss) from continuing operations (in Dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations (in Dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net income (loss) (in Dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Earnings (loss) from continuing operations (in Dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations (in Dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net income (loss) (in Dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] U.S. [Member] UNITED STATES U.K. [Member] UNITED KINGDOM Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Other Postretirement Benefits [Member] Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member] Pension Plans [Member] Pension Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Change in plan assets: Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Amount Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss) Employer contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer Settlement Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Payment for Settlement Benefits paid, including expenses DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitsPaidIncludingExpenses Amount of defined benefit plan benefits paid including expenses during the period. Plan participants’ contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Plan Participant Foreign currency translation Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Fair value of plan assets at end of year Equity Method And Cost Method Investments [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Investments Cost and Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Goodwill [Member] Goodwill [Member] Prepublication Assets [Member] Prepublication Costs [Member] Prepublication Costs [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Interest rate (percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant, and Equipment, Fair Value Disclosure Impairment, Property, plant and equipment, net Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Goodwill Goodwill, Fair Value Disclosure Impairment, Goodwill Goodwill, Impairment Loss Prepublication assets Prepublication Costs, Fair Value Disclosure Prepublication Costs, Fair Value Disclosure Impairment, Prepublication assets PrepublicationAssetsImpairmentLoss Amount of prepublication assets impairment loss. Intangible assets Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), Fair Value Disclosure Impairment, Intangible assets Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Additions Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Intangible assets acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Income Tax And Non Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Taxes IncomeTaxAndNonIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock Description containing the entire income tax and non-income tax disclosure. Examples include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carry forward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carry back, and tax uncertainties information. Also, includes disclosure relating to non-income taxes such as sales based taxes etc. This element may be used as a single block of text to encapsulate the entire disclosure including data and tables. Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues Revenues Operating costs and expenses: Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of goods sold Cost of Goods and Services Sold Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Severance Severance Costs Asset impairments Asset Impairment Charges Total operating costs and expenses Operating Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Interest income Investment Income, Interest Interest expense Interest Expense Other components of net periodic benefit (cost) Defined Benefit Plan, Periodic Benefit (Cost) Excluding Service Costs Defined Benefit Plan, Periodic Benefit (Cost) Excluding Service Costs Gain (loss) on investments and other Gain (Loss) on Investments and Other Gain (Loss) on Investments and Other Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Provision (benefit) for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Earnings (loss) from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share of Class A and Common Stock Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Dividends declared per common share (in Dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Details) [Table] Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Details) [Table] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] U.S. Based Book Fair Business [Member] U.S. Based Book Fair Business [Member] U.S. Based Book Fair Business [Member] U.K. Based Book Business [Member] U.K. Based Book Business [Member] U.K. Based Book Business [Member] Digital Phonics Business [Member] Digital Phonics Business [Member] Digital Phonics Business [Member] Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Details) [Line Items] Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Details) [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Number of businesses acquired Number of Businesses Acquired Intangible assets acquired Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Useful life of intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Details) [Table] Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Details) [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Participating Restricted Stock Units [Member] Participating Restricted Stock Units [Member] Participating Restricted Stock Units [Member] Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Details) [Line Items] Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Details) [Line Items] Undistributed Earnings Allocated to Participating Securities (in Dollars) Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Diluted Number of potentially antidilutive shares outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Antidilutive Securities Outstanding, Amount Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Antidilutive Securities Outstanding, Amount Options outstanding (Shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Remaining authorized repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Domain] Cash and cash equivalents [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Equity securities, U.S. [Member] Equity Securities United States [Member] Equity Securities, United States [Member] Equity securities, International [Member] Equity Securities International [Member] Equity Securities, International [Member] Pooled, Common and Collective Funds [Member] Pooled, Common and Collective Funds [Member] Pooled, Common and Collective Funds [Member] Fixed Income [Member] Fixed Income Securities [Member] Annuities [Member] Annuities [Member] Annuities Real Estate [Member] Real Estate [Member] Fair value of plan assets SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves SEC Schedule, 12-09, Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Management Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Management Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Management Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Granted (Shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Purchase price per unit (in Dollars per share) Purchase price per unit (in Dollars per share) Price per share of restricted stock units under the management stock purchase plan during the period. Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Carrying Value [Abstract] Debt Instrument, Carrying Value [Abstract] Debt Instrument, Carrying Value [Abstract] Revolving Loan (interest rate of 1.3%), Carrying Value Long-term Line of Credit Total debt Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount Less lines of credit and current portion of long-term debt, Carrying Value LinesOfCreditShorttermDebtAndLongtermDebtCurrent Total of the portions of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of lines of credit and short-term debt and long-term debt which are scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Total long-term debt, Carrying Value Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Fair value of debt Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Less lines of credit and current portion of long-term debt, Fair Value LinesOfCreditShorttermDebtAndLongtermDebtCurrentFairValue Total of the portions of the fair value of lines of credit and short-term debt and long-term debt which are scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Total long-term debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding (shares) at May 31, 2015 Granted (Shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (Shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Expired, cancellations and forfeitures (Shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Outstanding (Shares) at May 31, 2016 Exercisable (Shares) at May 31, 2016 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Outstanding at May 31, 2015 (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Expired, cancellations and forfeitures (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at May 31, 2016 (in Dollars per share) Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercisable at May 31, 2014 (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years), Outstanding at May 31, 2016 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years), Exercisable at May 31, 2016 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding at May 31, 2016 (in Dollars) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Exercisable at May 31, 2016 (in Dollars) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Earnings (Loss) Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Schedule of debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of income from continuing operations Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of income tax expense (benefit) Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of effective income tax rate reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrecognized tax benefits rollforward Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Building [Member] Building [Member] Building Improvements [Member] Building Improvements [Member] Capitalized Software [Member] Capitalized Software [Member] Capitalized Software [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Legacy Prepublication Costs [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Number of countries in which entity operates Number of Countries in which Entity Operates Depreciable life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Impairment charges Capitalized computer software, net Capitalized Computer Software, Net Capitalized computer software, amortization expense Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization Impairment charges Reporting units subject to goodwill impairment Reporting Units, Subject to Goodwill Impairment Reporting Units, Subject to Goodwill Impairment Deferred advertising costs Deferred Advertising Costs Schedule of assumptions used Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in projected benefit obligations Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in fair value of plan assets Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of amounts recognized in balance sheets Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Schedule of amounts recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of accumulated benefit obligations in excess of fair value of plan assets Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of net benefit costs Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of plan asset allocations Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in level 3 plan assets Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of expected benefit payments Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Schedule of health care cost trend rates Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of effect of one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Current Assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current [Abstract] Current assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current Current Liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of minimum future annual rental payments Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Schedule of minimum future contractual commitments Schedule of Minimum Future Contractual Commitments [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure for aggregate minimum future contractual commitments reported during the period. Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] State Sales Tax Assessment [Member] State Sales Tax Assessment [Member] State Sales Tax Assessment [Member] Wisconsin [Member] WISCONSIN Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Capital lease period Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Capital Leases, Term of Contract Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Capital Leases, Term of Contract Operating lease expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Capital lease amortization expense Capital Leases, Income Statement, Amortization Expense Open standby letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Sales and Excise Tax Payable Sales and Excise Tax Payable Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Summary of weighted average actuarial assumptions utilized to benefit obligations [Table] Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Summary of weighted average actuarial assumptions utilized to benefit obligations [Table] Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Summary of weighted average actuarial assumptions utilized to benefit obligations [Line Items] Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Summary of weighted average actuarial assumptions utilized to benefit obligations [Line Items] Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations: Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations: [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost: Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost: [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Expected short-term return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Short-term Return on Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Short-term Return on Assets Expected long-term return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Class A Stock [Member] Common Class A [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for royalty advances Allowance for royalty advances (in Dollars) A valuation allowance for royalty advances due to an Entity that are expected to be uncollectible. Preferred stock par value (in Dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common Stock, par value per share (in Dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Pension and postretirement adjustments: Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax [Abstract] Net actuarial gain (loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Gain (Loss), before Tax Amount recognized in Accumulated comprehensive income (loss) before tax Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, before Tax Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Tabular disclosure of entity's treasury stock TabularDisclosureofanEntitysTreasuryStockTableTextBlock Tabular disclosure of an entity's treasury stock including amount authorized by an entity's board of directors, the number of shares repurchased and the remaining maximum dollar value of shares available for repurchase under the program Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Current Assets [Member] Current Assets [Member] Current Assets [Member] Noncurrent Assets [Member] Noncurrent Assets [Member] Noncurrent Assets [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Plan assets Assets for Plan Benefits, Defined Benefit Plan Current liabilities Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Current Non-current liabilities Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Noncurrent Net funded balance Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position Schedule of effect of one percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates [Abstract] Total service and interest cost - 1% increase Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Total service and interest cost - 1% decrease Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Postretirement benefit obligation - 1% increase Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Postretirement benefit obligation - 1% decrease Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Document and Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Document Information [Table] Document Information [Table] Common Class A [Member] Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Document Type Document Type Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for doubtful accounts [Member] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Allowance, Credit Loss [Member] Reserve For Return [Member] Reserve For Return [Member] Reserve For Return. Reserves for obsolescence [Member] Reserves For Obsolescence [Member] Reserves For Obsolescence [Member] Reserve for royalty advances [Member] Reserve For Royalty Advances [Member] Reserve For Royalty Advances [Member] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance at Beginning of Year SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Amount Expensed SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions, Charge to Cost and Expense Write-Offs and Other SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deduction Balance at End of Year Short Term Debt [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Interest rate Weighted average interest rate Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time Investment [Axis] Investment [Axis] Investment [Domain] Investment [Domain] Equity Securities [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Liability Driven Instruments [Member] Liability Driven Instruments [Member] Liability Driven Instruments [Member] Real estate and other [Member] Real Estate and Other Investments [Member] Real Estate and Other Investments [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Allocations [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Allocations [Abstract] Targeted asset allocation Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Target Allocation, Percentage Equity [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Ooka Island, Inc. [Member] Ooka Island, Inc. [Member] Ooka Island, Inc. [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Equity interest acquired (percent) Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Acquisition related payments net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Intangible assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Goodwill expected to be deductible Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount Employee Benefit Plans (Details) [Table] Employee Benefit Plans (Details) [Table] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Amount reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Employee Benefit Plans (Details) [Line Items] Employee Benefit Plans (Details) [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Lump sum benefit payments Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Benefits Paid Cost of contracts Settlement charge Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Settlement Unrecognized prior service credit Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), after Tax Percentage of federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans PercentageOfFederalSubsidyToSponsorsOfRetireeHealthCareBenefitPlans Percentage of federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans. Cumulative reduction of its accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Prescription Drug Benefit, Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation, Decrease for Subsidy Accumulated other comprehensive loss reversed Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Settlement and Curtailment Gain (Loss), before Tax Estimated net loss to be recognized over next twelve months Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Amortization of Gain (Loss), Next Fiscal Year Defined benefit plans tax expense recognized in AOCI OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansTaxExpenseBenefit Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Tax Expense Benefit Fair value of annuities Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Estimated employer contributions in 2015 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year Employer contributions to defined contribution plan Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Payables and Accruals [Abstract] Schedule of other accrued expenses Other Current Liabilities [Table Text Block] Other Financial Data Disclosure [Abstract] Other Financial Data Disclosure [Abstract] Valuation Allowance [Table] Valuation Allowance [Table] Valuation Allowance [Line Items] Valuation Allowance [Line Items] Other Financial Data - Balance Sheet [Abstract] Accounts receivable reserve for returns Description of the Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Tax uniform capitalization Tax uniform capitalization The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the tax uniform capitalization. Prepublication expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Prepublication Expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Prepublication Expenses Inventory reserves Inventory reserves The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions attributable to inventory reserves related items which can only be realized if sufficient taxable income is generated in future periods to enable the deduction to be taken. Allowance for doubtful accounts Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Other reserves Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Reserves Postretirement, post employment and pension obligations Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits and Pension Obligations Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits and Pension Obligations Tax carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards Other - net Deferred Tax Assets, Other Gross deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Prepaid expenses Deferred Tax Liabilities, Prepaid Expenses Depreciation and amortization DeferredTaxLiabilitiesDepreciationAndAmortization The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the depreciation and amortization. Total deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Total net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income (loss) Other comprehensive income (loss), net: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments (net of tax) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Pension and postretirement adjustments (net of tax) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, after Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Foreign Currency Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Notional amount of derivatives Derivative, Notional Amount Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency derivatives Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Dividends declared (in dollars per share) Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) - Schedule of capital stock [Table] Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) - Schedule of capital stock [Table] Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) - Schedule of capital stock [Line Items] Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) - Schedule of capital stock [Line Items] Authorized Authorized Reserved for Issuance Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Reserved for Issuance Preferred Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Outstanding Outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Schedule of Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in fair value level 3 assets [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Actual Return on Plan Assets: Actual Return on Plan Assets: [Abstract] Relating to assets still held at year-end Relating to assets still held The assets that are still held by the entity during the period, measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Relating to assets sold during the year Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Purchases, sales and settlements, net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements) Transfers in and/or out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net Foreign currency translation FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisForeignCurrencyTranslation Amount of gain (loss) recognized in foreign currency translation adjustments, arising during the period measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (level 3). Ending Balance Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Weighted average grant date price per unit (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Goodwill and Other Intangibles Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Settlements during the period Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Net deferred tax assets Decrease in deferred tax asset valuation allowance Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Decrease, Amount Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Decrease, Amount Increase in deferred tax asset valuation allowance Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase, Amount Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase, Amount Foreign operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign Unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Income tax penalties and interest accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Tax (expense) benefit from income tax penalties and interest expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Period increase (decrease) in unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease) Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Remeasurement expense Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Income Tax Expense Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Income Tax Expense Schedule of Other Financial Data Other Than Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Advertising expense Advertising Expense Amortization of prepublication and production costs Amortization of prepublication and production costs This element represents the amortization of Prepublication costs and production costs based on expected future revenues or earning of related revenues in future. Foreign currency transaction gain (loss) Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Purchases related to contractual commitments for minimum print quantities Purchases related to contractual commitments for minimum print quantities during fiscal years The cash outflow for purchases related to contractual commitments relating to minimum print quantities. Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Cost Reduction Programs [Member] Cost Reduction Programs [Member] Cost Reduction Programs [Member] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Severance [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Restructuring Reserve Accruals Restructuring Charges Payments Payments for Restructuring Ending balance Schedule of basic and diluted earnings per share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Options Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding [Table Text Block] Schedule of capital stock Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of share-based compensation activity Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of stock option activity Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of restricted stock unit activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of nonvested restricted stock unit activity Nonvested Restricted Stock Shares Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of employee stock purchase plan activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Activity [Table Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of finite-lived intangible assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of future amortization of finite-lived intangible assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Other intangibles subject to amortization - beginning balance Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Amortization expense Foreign currency translation Finite Lived Intangible Assets, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Total other intangibles subject to amortization, net of accumulated amortization of $24.1 and $22.0, respectively Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Total other intangibles not subject to amortization Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Total other intangibles Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Other Accrued Expenses Accounts Payable, Accrued Liabilities, and Other Liabilities Disclosure, Current [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows - operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Earnings (loss) from continuing operations Adjustments to reconcile earnings (loss) from continuing operations to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities of continuing operations: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Provision for losses on accounts receivable Provision for Doubtful Accounts Provision for losses on inventory Inventory Write-down Provision for losses on royalty advances ProvisionForLossesOnRoyalty The provision charged to earnings in the period, the offset to which is either added to or deducted from the allowance account, for the purpose of reducing royalty advances Pension settlement Pension Expense (Reversal of Expense), Noncash Depreciation and amortization DepreciationAndAmortizationIncludingLeaseAmortization The current period expense charged against earnings on long-lived, physical assets not used in production, and which are not intended for resale, to allocate or recognize the cost of such assets over their useful lives, including lease amortization; or to record the reduction in book value of an intangible asset over the benefit period of such asset; or to reflect consumption during the period of an asset that is not used in production. Amortization of pension and postretirement actuarial gains and losses Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss) Deferred income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Income from equity investments NonCashNetGainOnEquityInvestments The net gain on equity investments Non cash write off related to asset impairments Other Asset Impairment Charges Unrealized (gain) loss on investments Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments Changes in assets and liabilities, net of amounts acquired: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Royalty advances IncreaseDecreaseInRoyaltyAdvances The net change during the reporting period in the amount of royalty advances which are capitalized net of allowance for reserves. Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Other accrued expenses IncreaseDecreaseInOtherAccruedExpenses Increase (decrease) in other accrued expenses. Accrued income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Taxes Payable Accrued royalties Increase (Decrease) in Royalties Payable Deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Pension and postretirement obligations Increase (Decrease) in Obligation, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Other noncurrent liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Liabilities Other, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Total adjustments Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows - investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Prepublication and production expenditures Prepublication And Production Expenditures Prepublication And Production Expenditures Additions to property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sale of assets Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Other investment and acquisition related payments Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Working capital adjustment/Proceeds from sale of discontinued assets (Payments For) Proceeds From Divestiture of Business (Payments For) Proceeds From Divestiture of Business Changes in restricted cash held in escrow for discontinued assets Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows - financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Borrowings under lines of credit Proceeds from Lines of Credit Repayments of lines of credit Repayments of Lines of Credit Repayment of capital lease obligations RepaymentsOfCapitalLeaseObligations The cash outflow during the period from the repayment of aggregate short-term and long-term payment of capital lease obligations. Reacquisition of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Proceeds pursuant to stock-based compensation plans Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Payment of dividends Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental Information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Income tax payments (refunds) Income Taxes Paid, Net Interest paid Interest Paid, Including Capitalized Interest, Operating and Investing Activities Non cash: Property, plant and equipment additions accrued in accounts payable Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Prepublication Costs [Member] Customer Lists [Member] Customer Lists [Member] Intellectual Property [Member] Intellectual Property [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Schedule of other financial data Schedule Of Other Financial Data Other Than Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Other Financial Data Other Than Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Investments (Details) [Table] Investments (Details) [Table] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Make Believe Ideas Limited (MBI) [Member] Make Believe Ideas Limited (MBI) [Member] Make Believe Ideas Limited (MBI) [Member] Children's Book Publishing and Distribution [Member] Childrens Book Publishing And Distribution [Member] Children's Book Publishing and Distribution Other Investments [Member] Other Equity and Cost Method Investments [Member] Other Equity and Cost Method Investments [Member] Cost Method Investment in China [Member] China Based Cost Method Investment [Member] China Based Cost Method Investment [Member] Investments (Details) [Line Items] Investments (Details) [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Investments Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Equity method investments Equity Method Investments Non-controlling interest held Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Income (loss) from equity method investments Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Gain on sale of cost method investments Cost-method Investments, Realized Gains Projected benefit obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Projected benefit obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Projected Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Fair value of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Plan Assets Assumed health care cost trend rates [Abstract] Health care cost trend rate assumed for the next fiscal year Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed, Next Fiscal Year Rate to which the cost trend is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate) Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate Defined Benefit Plan, Year Health Care Cost Trend Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Principles of consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts receivable Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventories Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Leases Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Prepublication costs Prepublication Costs Policy [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for prepublication costs. Royalty advances Royalty Advances Policy [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for royalty advances. Goodwill and intangible assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Non-income Taxes Non-Income Taxes Policy [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for non income taxes. Unredeemed incentive credits Unredeemed Incentive Credits Policy [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for unredeemed incentive credits. Pension obligations Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign currency translation Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Shipping and handling costs Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising costs Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment [Abstract] 2017 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Next Twelve Months 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Two 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Three 2020 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Four 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Five 2022-2026 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Medicare Subsidy Receipts Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipt [Abstract] 2017 DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitReceiptsNextTwelveMonths Amount of benefits expected to be received in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year from a defined benefit plan. 2018 DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitReceiptsYearTwo Amount of benefits expected to be received in the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year from a defined benefit plan. 2019 DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitReceiptsYearThree Amount of benefits expected to be received in the third fiscal year following the latest fiscal year from a defined benefit plan. 2020 DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitReceiptsYearFour Amount of benefits expected to be received in the fourth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year from a defined benefit plan. 2021 DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitReceiptsYearFive Amount of benefits expected to be received in the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year from a defined benefit plan. 2022-2026 DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitReceiptsFiveFiscalYearsThereafter Amount of benefits expected to be received in the five fiscal years after the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year from a defined benefit plan. Royalty Advances [Abstract] Royalty Advances [Abstract] Royalty Advances [Abstract] 2017 ContractualCommitmentsRoyaltyAdvancesDueCurrent The amount of contractual commitments related to royalty advances due within one year from the balance sheet date. 2018 ContractualCommitmentsRoyaltyAdvancesDueInTwoYear The amount of contractual commitments related to royalty advances due within two year from the balance sheet date. 2019 ContractualCommitmentsRoyaltyAdvancesDueInThreeYear The amount of contractual commitments related to royalty advances due within three year from the balance sheet date. 2020 ContractualCommitmentsRoyaltyAdvancesDueInFourYear The amount of contractual commitments related to royalty advances due within four year from the balance sheet date. 2021 ContractualCommitmentsRoyaltyAdvancesDueInFiveYear The amount of contractual commitments related to royalty advances due within five year from the balance sheet date. Thereafter ContractualCommitmentsRoyaltyAdvancesDueThereafter ContractualCommitmentsRoyaltyAdvancesDueThereafter Total commitments ContractualCommitmentsRoyaltyAdvances The amount of contractual commitments related to royalty advances. MInimum Print Quantities [Abstract] MInimum Print Quantities [Abstract] MInimum Print Quantities [Abstract] 2017 MinimumPrintQunatitiesCommitmentsAmountDueCurrent The amount the entity has committed to make for future minimum print qunatities commitment amount, due within one year of the balance sheet date. 2018 MinimumPrintQunatitiesCommitmentsAmountDueInTwoYears The amount the entity has committed to make for future minimum print qunatities commitment amount, due within second year of the balance sheet date. 2019 MinimumPrintQunatitiesCommitmentsAmountDueInThreeYears The amount the entity has committed to make for future minimum print qunatities commitment amount, due within third year of the balance sheet date. 2020 MinimumPrintQunatitiesCommitmentsAmountDueInFourYears The amount the entity has committed to make for future minimum print qunatities commitment amount, due within fourth year of the balance sheet date. 2021 MinimumPrintQunatitiesCommitmentsAmountDueInFiveYears The amount the entity has committed to make for future minimum print qunatities commitment amount, due within fifth year of the balance sheet date. Thereafter MinimumPrintQunatitiesCommitmentsAmountDueThereafter The amount the entity has committed to make for future minimum print qunatities commitment amount, after the fifth year from the balance sheet date. Total commitments MinimumPrintQunatitiesCommitmentsAmount The amount the entity has committed to make for future minimum print qunatities commitment amount. Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock At Cost [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Balance (in Shares) Shares, Outstanding Net Income (loss) Foreign currency translation adjustment Pension and postretirement adjustments, net of tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax and Reclassification Adjustment, Attributable to Parent Stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Proceeds pursuant to stock-based compensation plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Proceeds from issuance of common stock pursuant to stock-based compensation (in Shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Purchases of treasury stock at cost Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Purchases of treasury stock at cost (in Shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury stock issued pursuant to equity-based plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Treasury Stock Reissued Treasury stock issued pursuant to stock purchase plans (in Shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued Dividends Dividends, Common Stock Balance Balance (in Shares) Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) - Schedule of Stock Unit and Restricted Stock Unit activity [Table] Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) - Schedule of Stock Unit and Restricted Stock Unit activity [Table] Stock Units And Restricted Stock Units [Member] Stock Units And Restricted Stock Units [Member] Stock Units And Restricted Stock Units [Member] Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) - Schedule of Stock Unit and Restricted Stock Unit activity [Line Items] Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) - Schedule of Stock Unit and Restricted Stock Unit activity [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Nonvested (Shares) as of May 31, 2015 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Vested (Shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (Shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Nonvested (Shares) as of May 31, 2016 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Nonvested as of May 31, 2015 (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (in Dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested as of May 31, 2016 (in Dollars per share) Schedule of unrecognized tax benefits [Abstract] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Gross unrecognized benefits, Beginning of period Decreases related to prior year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Increase related to prior year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Increases related to current year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Settlements during the period Lapse of statute of limitation Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Gross unrecognized benefits, End of period Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Stock-based compensation cost (pretax) Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Tax benefits related to stock-based compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Weighted average grant date fair value per option (in Dollars per share) Estimated fair value of stock options granted (in Dollars) The estimated fair value of stock options granted. Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 2007 Loan Agreement [Member] Two Thousand and Seven Loan Agreement [Member] Two Thousand and Seven Loan Agreement [Member] Loan Agreement [Member] Loan Agreement [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Standby Letter Of Credit [Member] Standby Letter Of Credit [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Swingline Facility [Member] Swingline Facility [Member] Swingline Facility [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Federal Funds Rate [Member] Federal Funds Rate [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Eurodollar [Member] Eurodollar [Member] Base Rate [Member] Base Rate [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Unsecured Debt [Member] Unsecured Debt [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Interest rate description Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description Borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Starter basket for permitted payments of dividends and other capital stock payments Debt Instrument, Covenant, Equity Transaction Restrictions, Debt Limit Debt Instrument, Covenant, Equity Transaction Restrictions, Debt Limit Expiration date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Spread on base rate advances Line Of Credit Facility, Base Rate, Advances Line of credit facility base rate advances. Spread on Eurodollar rate advances Line Of Credit Facility, Eurodollar Rate, Advances Line of credit facility Eurodollar rate advances. Facility fee LineOfCreditFacilityFeePercentage The fee, expressed as a percentage of the line of credit facility, for the line of credit facility regardless of whether the facility has been used. Available increase in borrowing capacity Debt Instrument, Available Increase in Borrowing Capacity Debt Instrument, Available Increase in Borrowing Capacity Amount outstanding Standby letters of credit StandbyLettersofCredit Standby Letters of Credit Outstanding borrowings Short-term Debt Remaining borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Term of debt instrument Debt Instrument, Term Weighted average interest rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Derivatives and Hedging Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Gross beginning balance Goodwill, Gross Accumulated impairment Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Beginning balance Goodwill Additions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Foreign currency translation Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Other Goodwill, Other Increase (Decrease) Gross ending balance Accumulated impairment Ending balance Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Other Securities [Member] Other Securities [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract] Weighted average asset allocations Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Actual Allocation, Percentage Assets [Abstract] Assets [Abstract] Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Inventories, net Inventory, Net Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Current assets of discontinued operations Total current assets Assets, Current Noncurrent Assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Prepublication costs, net Prepublication costs Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of capitalized value of the art, prepress, editorial and other costs incurred in the creation of the master copy of a book or other media (the “prepublication costs”). Prepublication costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over a three- to seven-year period based on expected future revenues. Royalty advances, net Royalty advances, net Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of royalty advances capitalized net of allowance for reserves which are expensed when related revenues are earned or when future recovery appears doubtful. Goodwill Noncurrent deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Other assets and deferred charges Other assets and deferred charges Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet due to materiality considerations. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). It also includes sum of the carrying amounts of deferred costs that are expected to be recognized as a charge against earnings in periods after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Total noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Lines of credit and current portion of long-term debt Lines of credit, short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt Lines of credit, short term debt and current portion of long term deb Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued royalties Accrued Royalties, Current Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Other accrued expenses OtherAccruedExpenses Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of other accrued expenses (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Accrued income taxes Accrued Income Taxes Current liabilities of discontinued operations Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Noncurrent Liabilities: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total noncurrent liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Commitments and Contingencies: Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders’ Equity: Preferred Stock, $1.00 par value: Authorized, 2.0 shares; Issued and Outstanding, none Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common Stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock at cost Treasury Stock, Value Total stockholders’ equity Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Pension and postretirement adjustments, tax portion Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, Tax Schedule of accrued expenses [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Accrued payroll, payroll taxes and benefits Accrued payroll, payroll taxes and benefits Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of payroll and payroll taxes and benefits (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Accrued bonus and commissions Accrued bonus and commissions Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable for bonuses and commissions awarded to employees and directors or earned by them based on the terms of one or more relevant arrangements. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Accrued other taxes Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current Accrued advertising and promotions Accrued advertising and promotions Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of accrued advertising and promotions (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Accrued insurance Accrued Insurance, Current Other accrued expenses Other accrued expenses Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of other accrued expenses (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Total accrued expenses Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Employee Stock Purchase Plan Shares issued Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Weighted average purchase price per share (in Dollars per share) Weighted average purchase price per share (in Dollars per share) Weighted average price share of common stock issued during the period as a result of an employee stock purchase plan. Other Financial Data Other Financial Data Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure relating to financial data which are material and for which a more specific and appropriate taxonomy is not available. Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Computed federal statutory provision Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State income tax provision, net of federal income tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Difference in effective tax rates on earnings of foreign subsidiaries Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Charitable contributions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Charitable Contributions, Percent Percentage of charitable contributions tax rate reconciliation. Tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Percent Valuation allowances Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent Uncertain Positions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Uncertain Tax Positions, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Uncertain Tax Positions, Percent Remeasurement of deferred tax balances Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Percent Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Percent Permanent Differences Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Percent Other - net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective tax rates Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Total provision for income taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Pension Plans [Member] Other Pension Plan [Member] Postretirement Benefits [Member] Foreign currency translation adjustments [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Lump sum settlement charge [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Settlement Charges Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Settlement Charges Attributable to Parent [Member] Recognized net actuarial loss [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Service cost [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Prior Service Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward] AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Ending balance Pension and postretirement adjustments, tax portion Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Tax Estimated fair value of stock options granted (in Dollars) Assumptions: Assumptions: [Abstract] Expected dividend yield (percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Expected stock price volatility (percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Risk-free interest rate (percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected life of options (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Schedule of change in benefit obligations [Table] Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Schedule of change in benefit obligations [Table] Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Schedule of change in benefit obligations [Line Items] Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - Schedule of change in benefit obligations [Line Items] Change in benefit obligation: Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Benefit obligation at beginning of year Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Plan participants’ contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Contributions by Plan Participant Actuarial losses (gains) Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Foreign currency translation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Settlement Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, (Increase) Decrease for Settlement Benefits paid, including expenses Benefit obligation at end of year Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Education [Member] Education [Member] Education Overhead [Member] Overhead [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Total Domestic [Member] Total Domestic [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- International [Member] International Segment [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Number of reportable segments Number of Reportable Segments Bad debts Depreciation and amortization Depreciation & Amortization, including prepublication and production costs Depreciation of property, plant and equipment and amortization of intangible assets, prepublication and production costs. Segment operating income (loss) Segment assets Segment assets Total assets for reportable segments excluding discontinued operations. Expenditures for long-lived assets including royalty advances Expenditures for Property, Plant and Equipment, Prepublication, Production, Royalty Advances, Goodwill, Intangibles and Investments Expenditures for Property, Plant and Equipment, Prepublication, Production, Royalty Advances, Goodwill, Intangibles and Investments Long-lived assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Prepublication, Production, Royalty Advances, Goodwill, Intangibles and Investments Property, Plant and Equipment, Prepublication, Production, Royalty Advances, Goodwill, Intangibles and Investments Expenditures for long-lived assets Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Long-lived assets Long-Lived Assets Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) [Table] Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] 2001 Plan [Member] Plan 2001 [Member] 2001 Plan [Member] Plan 2011 [Member] Plan 2011 [Member] 2007 Directors’ Plan [Member] Directors Plan 2007 [Member] 2007 Directors’ Plan [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Class A Stock Options [Member] Class A Stock Options [Member] Class A Stock Options [Member] Defined Benefit Plan [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan DefinedBenefitPlan [Domain] DefinedBenefitPlan [Domain] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- 2017 Outside Director's Stock Incentive Plan [Member] Two Thousand and Seventeen Outside Director's Stock Incentive Plan [Member] Two Thousand and Seventeen Outside Director's Stock Incentive Plan [Member] Amended 2007 Directors Plan [Member] Amended 2007 Directors Plan [Member] Amended 2007 Directors Plan 2007 Directors’ Plan [Member] Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) [Line Items] Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards (Details) [Line Items] Preferred stock issued Increase in number of shares available for grant Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Increase in Number of Shares Available for Grant Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Increase in Number of Shares Available for Grant Options granted (Shares) Weighted average exercise price of options granted (in Dollars per share) Common stock remaining authorized under employee stock purchase plan Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Non-qualified stock options outstanding NonQualifiedStockOptionsToPurchase Number of non-qualified stock options shares to purchase under the plan. Restricted stock outstanding ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardRestrictedStockUnits Number of restricted units. Shares reserved for issuance Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Shares Authorized for Issuance Stock Granted, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross Stock Granted, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Stock Allocation Percentage Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Stock Allocation Percentage Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Stock Allocation Percentage Stock option compensation cost not yet recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Future period of stock option expense recognition Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Stock-based compensation cost Common stock issued from conversion of RSUs Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Units Deferred rate for annual cash bonus payment DeferredRateForAnnualCashBonusPayment Rate at which annual cash bonus payments are deferred by the entity. Quarterly basis discount rate of common stock on closing price QuarterlyBasisDiscountRateOfCommonStockOnClosingPrice Discount rate of common stock on closing price. Fair value of shares vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Capital Stock and Stock-Based Awards Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Schedule of segment reporting information by segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Land [Member] Land [Member] Capitalized software [Member] Furniture, fixtures and equipment [Member] Building and Leasehold improvements [Member] Leasehold Improvements [Member] Book Fairs Trucks [Member] Trucks [Member] Website Development [Member] Software Development [Member] Legacy Building Improvements [Member] Total at cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Depreciation and amortization expense of property plant and equipment Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Property capitalized Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Property capitalized not yet being depreciated Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Not Yet Being Depreciated Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Not Yet Being Depreciated Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of provision for income taxes [Abstract] Federal Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State and local State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) International Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total provision for income taxes (in Dollars) Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Stock Repurchase Program, Increase in Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Amount of stock repurchased in period Shares of stock repurchased (in shares) Average cost of stock repurchased (in Dollars per share) Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Components of net periodic (benefit) cost: Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) [Abstract] Expected return on assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets Net amortization and deferrals Net amortization and deferrals The amount of the prior service cost or credit recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to net amortization and deferrals. Settlement charge Amortization of net actuarial loss Recognized net actuarial loss Amount of recognized net actuarial loss during the period. Net periodic (benefit) cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2018 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2019 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2020 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2021 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Less amount representing interest Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Present value of net minimum capital lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments Less current maturities of capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Restricted cash released Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Text Block] Schedule of assumptions used in valuation of share-based compensation awards Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes [Abstract] Taxes (Details) - Schedule of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes [Table] Taxes (Details) - Schedule of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] United States [Member] Domestic Tax Authority [Member] Non-United States [Member] Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Taxes (Details) - Schedule of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes [Line Items] Taxes (Details) - Schedule of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes [Line Items] Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Net amortization and deferrals [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Amortization and Deferrals Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net Amortization and Deferrals Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassifications, before tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax Tax benefit Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax