Thu Oct 31 06:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Local News Crisis Deepens as Deserts Expand and Ownership Shifts

**EVANSTON, IL** – A new report from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism paints a stark picture of the ongoing local news crisis. The “State of Local News Report” reveals a landscape marked by rapidly shrinking newspapers, expanding “news deserts,” and a surge in mergers and acquisitions.

The report, now in its third year, highlights the alarming rate at which local newspapers are disappearing, leaving communities starved for vital information. These news deserts are expanding, further depriving people of the resources they need to make informed decisions.

“The local news crisis isn’t just about the loss of local outlets; it’s also about the diminution of community coverage,” said Dr. Zachary Metzger, the report’s primary author.

The report also sheds light on the dramatic shift in ownership within the industry. Longtime newspaper owners are increasingly selling out, paving the way for regional chains to consolidate power.

While traditional newspapers struggle, the report notes a rise in standalone digital local news sites. This year’s report introduces a new dataset tracking the growth of network local news sites, such as Patch and Axios, offering a more holistic view of the local news landscape.

The Medill team also conducted an in-depth survey to understand the growing trend of “ghost newspapers” – outlets that operate in name only, providing minimal original local reporting.

The report acknowledges that this ever-evolving landscape poses a significant challenge. “We recognize that this database constantly needs to change to reflect the rapid reshaping of the local news landscape,” said Tim Franklin, Senior Associate Dean and John M. Mutz Chair in Local News.

The “State of Local News Report” is a collaboration led by Dr. Metzger, who has been working on the research for over four years. The report’s findings provide crucial insights into the challenges facing local news and offer valuable data for organizations seeking to address the crisis.

The report underscores the need for continued investment in local journalism, with support from organizations like the Knight Foundation, MacArthur Foundation, and Joyce Foundation. These crucial resources allow researchers to track the changing landscape and develop strategies to ensure the future of local news.

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