Local news has a critical role to play in connecting communities, promoting accountability and transparency, providing essential information, and supporting local businesses. But as more Americans seek out their news online and local media outlets consolidate, many may feel that the quality of their local news has diminished.
Amid declining revenues and changing consumer habits, many local broadcast, print and radio news organizations have struggled to survive. Many have consolidated their ownership and cut staff in a bid to reduce costs and compete more effectively with digital sources. Some local newspapers have folded altogether. The remaining local news options, both legacy and digital, continue to face financial challenges and the loss of readership, but some are finding new ways to meet consumers’ needs for community-building news.
For example, one way that some local news organizations are attempting to increase engagement with their content is by using user-generated content (UGC) such as videos, photos or essays submitted by readers. This can help to attract younger audiences and provide a variety of fresh perspectives on local news stories.
When asked which local sources do the best job at fulfilling a number of civic duties, such as amplifying positive stories and holding local leaders accountable for their actions, Americans who turn to local broadcast, newspaper and radio news often give them high marks. In contrast, when it comes to social media and personal networks, those sources do not rank as highly in these categories.