Des Moines-based Meredith Corp. reported today fiscal 2008 second-quarter net earnings of $36 million, or 75 cents per share, compared with $35 million, or 72 cents per share, in the year-ago period. Excluding a 2-cent-per-share impact of discontinued operations, earnings per share were equal to the prior-year quarter. Revenues were $396 million for the three months ended Dec. 31, compared with $399 million a year ago.

A nearly 30 percent increase in publishing operating profits compared with 2006 helped boost earnings. Publishing revenues rose 5 percent to $309 million, and advertising revenues rose 8 percent, led by a 30 percent jump for More, a 17 percent increase for Parents, a 9 percent rise for Better Homes and Gardens and an 8 percent jump for Family Circle. Revenues at Meredith Integrated Marketing soared more than 50 percent, aided by three marketing acquisitions over the past year.

“Our core magazine business continued to outperform the industry during the quarter, highlighting our leadership in the women’s service field and the momentum of our parenthood titles,” said Stephen Lacy, Meredith’s president and CEO, in a press release. “Additionally, our custom marketing and online businesses continue to post impressive revenue growth, partially offset by continued weakness at Meredith Books.”

Meanwhile, broadcasting operating profits fell to $28 million from $40 million and revenues decreased 16 percent to $88 million in the second fiscal quarter, primarily from a decline in political advertising.

Meredith reaffirmed its outlook for fiscal 2008, expecting earnings in a range of $3.50 to $3.55 per share. However, the company will continue to absorb an annualized postal rate increase of more than $13 million.