While journalism and news delivery is alive and well on radio stations such as Lake 88, the future of print journalism has become a hot topic across the province as the media-scape shifts with many once market-dominant newspapers shifting to an online-only format.
Metroland shuttered local papers across the province including the weeklies in Perth, Smiths Falls, and Almonte-Carleton Place, opting for an online presence during restructuring.
Lake 88’s commitment to provide local news on the radio and on our website in each of those communities remains unwavering, but the shift could leave some more traditional paper-readers behind.
Allan Thompson, Head of Carleton University’s Journalism Program tells us losing local print news sources removes an entire population not served by a local radio station from the news equation.
As one of the people shaping the future look of media delivery through education, Thompson adds that he hopes any new online delivery methods are successful for both the small communities they serve, and the next generation of reporters and journalists.
As for that next generation, Jon Willing, a Journalism Professor at Algonquin College, says the pool of new talent continues to run deep.
That said, Willing understands the move to digital won’t be a simple transition for many, including those who just don’t like technology, and seniors who prefer they have that weekly paper in their hands.
Readers face the same question from a consumer point of view, wondering how they can get local news provided by trusted sources. Willing calls it a symbiotic relationship.
The professor also urges news consumers to seek out reliable local news outlets, such as Lake 88, be it online or on-air.
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