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TRULY-LOCAL

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John@Truly-Local.org

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Local media holds a unique position in the fabric of a local community. By focusing on the specific needs, challenges, and stories within their communities, locally produced media can play a pivotal role in fostering community engagement, supporting the local economy, and improving social cohesion.

Local media serves as a crucial platform for community engagement. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 71% of Americans follow local news closely, underscoring the trust and importance placed on local media sources. This high level of interest is essential for ensuring that informed citizens are active participants in their communities.  Local news outlets can highlight issues that directly affect their readers, such as school board decisions, local government policies, and community events. This targeted coverage encourages residents to get involved in local governance and civic activities.

The economic impact of local media extends far beyond journalism. By providing an affordable platform for local businesses to advertise their products and services, local media helps to stimulate the local economy. A study by BIA Advisory Services found that local advertising revenues were projected to reach beyond $100 billion in 2024, with a significant portion of this being driven by small and medium-sized businesses.  When factoring the reach, local media outlets often offer more affordable advertising rates compared to national media, making it feasible for small businesses to reach their target audience effectively. This not only boosts the businesses' sales but also keeps money circulating within the local economy. Furthermore, local media can support economic development by promoting tourism, showcasing local culture, and highlighting regional attractions.

Having a cohesive environment is vital for the resilience and prosperity of any community. Local media fosters this cohesion by sharing stories that reflect the community’s challenges, and triumphs. By highlighting local heroes, community projects, and success stories, local media creates a sense of pride and unity among residents.

A survey by the Knight Foundation revealed that 47% of Americans turned to local media for COVID-19 news, underscoring the trust placed in these outlets in lieu of the less trusted national outlets during crises.

Local media is instrumental in preserving and promoting local culture and identity. By covering local traditions, festivals, and historical events, local media ensures that cultural heritage is passed down to future generations. This preservation is not only important for maintaining a community’s unique identity but also for fostering a sense of belonging among residents.  A report by the American Press Institute highlighted that local newspapers are particularly effective in covering local culture, with 73% of Americans believing that their local paper does a good job of covering the area’s cultural scene. This coverage helps to sustain local arts and culture, which are vital components of a vibrant community.

One of the most significant roles of local media is to shine a light on local issues and potential solutions. Investigative journalism at the local level can expose corruption, environmental hazards, and social injustices that might otherwise go unnoticed. By bringing these issues to the forefront, local media can prompt action from both the public and authorities.  For example, a local newspaper investigation into water quality issues can lead to increased public awareness, community activism, and ultimately, policy changes to ensure safe drinking water. This watchdog role is essential for maintaining transparency and accountability within local governments and institutions.

In an increasingly digital world, local media also plays a crucial role in building connected communities through digital platforms. Many local media outlets have adapted to the digital age by maintaining active websites and social media profiles. This online presence allows them to reach a broader audience, including younger generations who consume news digitally.  The transition to digital platforms also enables local media to engage with their audience in real-time, gather feedback, and create interactive content. This two-way communication strengthens the relationship between local media and the community, fostering a sense of collective identity and shared purpose.

Local media is more than just a source of news; it is a cornerstone of community vitality. By enhancing community engagement, supporting local economies, furthering social cohesion, preserving culture, addressing local issues, and building connected communities, local media has the power to save and revitalize local communities. The continued support and investment in local media are essential for nurturing informed, engaged, and resilient communities that can thrive in an ever-changing world.

John Newby is a nationally recognized Columnist, Speaker, & Publisher. He consults with Chambers, Communities, Business & Media. His “Building Main Street, not Wall Street,” column appears in 60+ newspapers and media outlets. As founder of Truly-Local, he assists chambers, communities, media, and businesses in creating synergies that build vibrant communities. He can be reached at: John@Truly-Local.org.