Nieman Reports

Winter 2007

Is Local News the Answer?

Cover for Winter 2007

“Unique local content” is by now a familiar phrase as print competes with digital media for readers’ attention. With constantly updated international and national news reporting and commentary just a click away, hometown readers need different reasons to go to their local newspaper, in print or online. In this issue of Nieman Reports, we will explore what local news reporting can look like and what a hometown focus can mean for journalists, newspapers, Web sites, and those who consume this news and information.

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Is Local News the Answer?

Winter 2007: Introduction

By Melissa Ludtke• Local News• December 15, 2007

“Unique local content” is by now a familiar phrase as print competes with digital media for readers’ attention. With constantly updated international and national news reporting and commentary just a click away, hometown readers need different reasons to go to their local newspaper, in print or online. In this issue of Nieman Reports, we will explore what local news reporting can look like and what a hometown focus can mean for journalists, newspapers, Web sites, and those who consume this news and information. – Melissa Ludtke, Editor Read more

Readership Institute’s Newspaper Studies

By Dean Miller• Local News• December 15, 2007

Mary Nesbitt is managing director of the Readership Institute at the Media Management Center and associate dean for curriculum and professional excellence at Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. The Readership Institute, which was created with funds provided by … Read more

Tips About Starting a Hyperlocal Web Site

By Jan Schaffer• Local News• December 15, 2007

For those seeking to venture into the hyperlocal sphere—whether affiliated with a news organization or not—we’ve developed tips through observation and study. —J.S. 1. Get ready for a high-touch experience: Citizen journalists won’t join the effort unless cajoled, recruited, trained, … Read more

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