In a society driven by instant gratification, 24-hour news cycles, viral videos and headlines driven by social media algorithms, many small-town newspapers are overlooked. However, across the country local journalism continues to serve a vital role in their communities.
Like many occupations, small-town newspapers face new hardships as the days go by. We have watched print subscriptions decline, as some have switched to e-editions or simply no longer read newspapers and focus on digital habits. Staffs have decreased in size to try and absorb the costs. Across the nation, reporters are often asked to do the jobs of three, cover school board meetings by night after designing pages by day. And for many local papers, there’s no backup; when one journalist burns out or moves on, the whole operation suffers.
These are not glamorous jobs. There’s no national spotlight, no major bylines. Just the consistent commitment of covering city council meetings, high school sports, obituaries, bake sales, zoning disputes and more. Yet, this is the journalism that most directly affects people’s lives.
When small-town newspapers disappear (over 2,000 have closed across the United States in the past two decades) a void is left behind. That void isn’t just about news, it’s about accountability of the governing body serving those areas.
Newspapers have long served as a historical database, recording births, milestones, retirements, and remembrances. In my 17 years as an editor, I don’t believe we have went a week without a call asking about obtaining a clipping from a newspaper, whether it be during the current year or from the first year, more than 150 years ago. Newspapers not only keep information but showcase the community and its people throughout the years.
For nearly two decades, I have been able to collaborate or even simply seek advice from amazing reporters, editors and publishers. Despite shrinking budgets, we share ways that will keep us showing up for our communities as we truly believe in the power of an informed community. There will always be hurdles, but we will continue to tell the stories that matter right here at home for years to come.
It’s National Newspaper Week. Let’s not just celebrate small-town journalism — let’s fight for it.
Robin Wunderlich Quote of the Week “The purpose of journalism is to comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable.” ~ Molly Ivins
