Local news is the information that matters most to a community: traffic and weather reports, sports scores, local government issues, civic information about crime and politics, and cultural news about the arts and schools. Most Americans who get local news report being highly satisfied with it, particularly when the topic is the weather or local sports (though the number who are highly satisfied with their local news about local crime and government is lower).
Local media can range from large commercial broadcasting networks to small nonprofits that specialize in covering a single city or town. In recent years, media consolidation has led to fewer locally-owned stations and a decline in the depth of local coverage, though independent companies are experimenting with new business models that can make them profitable again.
Across the country, local newsrooms are trying to find ways to thrive in the face of declining revenue, changing news consumption habits and ongoing technological changes. They are pursuing strategies that include collaboration with national outlets, philanthropic support and innovative fundraising approaches like crowdfunding. The examples in this collection of 13 local stories that made a difference showcase some of the best work being done to sustain and strengthen local journalism.