With the surge of social media use in the digital age, print journalism has faced a great reduction in the number of readers, and many magazines and news publications have not been able to stay afloat. 

Most publications have used Gen-Z’s extensive use of social media and the internet to foster connections with their audience and produce relevant content, putting the production of physical copies on the back burner. 

While this approach to connect with and usher in younger demographics seems to be advantageous, it has contributed to the decline of print media. 

Not only has the transition to digital media been used to stay relevant with technological advancements, but it is also a cheaper alternative to producing physical copies.

However, despite it being an effort to save money, the advertisement and consumer revenue have greatly decreased.

Many disagree about whether or not print journalism is salvageable and question what could be done to revitalize it in a way that is relevant to both younger and older generations, but still maintains authenticity.

Print journalism is important for several reasons: it can be more credible and accurate compared to news shared on social media; it offers longevity with the ability to be archived and maintained over time. 

It is also more accessible to all demographics, including people without access to a computer, or older individuals who may not be as tech-savvy and prefer traditional methods of receiving their news. 

The decline of print media has also contributed to the downsizing of various publications, with some being shut down completely, causing there to be fewer job opportunities for those in the journalism industry. 

2023 was a difficult year for the news business, and many publications faced being downsized or shut down as a result. The United States lost more than 130 newspapers during the year, equivalent to 2.5 per week, according to a 2023 report from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. 

Last year, in April, Paper Magazine laid off their entire editorial staff and shut down editorial operations, due to lack of advertisement revenue since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The publication has since resumed operations after being acquired by Street Media in June.

Over 500 journalists were laid off from their jobs in January 2024, and various media outlets such as The Los Angeles Times, Time Magazine and NBC News have cut dozens of employees. 

This is not only an issue that concerns the journalism community but is detrimental to this country’s access to timely and accurate information. 

With upcoming elections and various global issues, it is imperative to ensure that the American people have access to accurate news. 

The lack of revenue and number of employees not only concerns large publications, but small, local magazines and newspapers who are essential to keeping communities afloat by providing information that is relevant to their area.

Local news is crucial to our democracy and provides accurate, trustworthy information about issues in our communities, shares local culture, gives individuals a platform to voice their opinions and share their stories, and fosters civic engagement. 

It also serves as the backbone for major news outlets and shines a light on lesser-known stories that are often missed by mainstream outlets that produce broader content. 

Now more than ever, misinformation is easily being spread on the internet, and the number of credible journalists is diminishing.

To help boost the sustainability of print media, consider subscribing to a local newspaper, placing advertisements, or making donations. 

The support for newspaper and magazine publications is increasingly needed to prevent print media from becoming obsolete.