The sun would rise over the Rockies, and Robin Gammons would rush to the front porch to grab the morning paper before school. This daily ritual was not just about reading comics or sports scores, but the Montana Standard carried weight beyond mere news, marking personal achievements within the community.
However, the reality of print media is changing. Two years ago, the Montana Standard cut its print circulation to three days a week, reflecting a broader trend affecting about 1,200 newspapers nationwide over the last two decades. An average of two papers close each week, transforming our news consumption landscape.
This decline highlights the role newspapers played beyond information dissemination. For years, people utilized newspapers in various aspects of daily life, from wrapping gifts to providing material for school projects or lining pet cages. Diane DeBlois, a founder of the Ephemera Society of America, emphasizes how newspapers contributed to household routines and culture.
The transition to digital journalism raises questions about the future of local journalism and community engagement. As printed materials fade, so too does a physical connection to community history and identity, as many recall their important milestones, perhaps preserved by a simple newspaper clipping.
Yet, the potential loss is not merely sentimental; it poses real challenges for nonprofits and local businesses dependent on newspapers for packaging and advertising. As we move forward, the effects of this shift on community dynamics, democracy, and collective memory remain to be seen.
