As 2015 begins, we’ve taken a moment to look back at some of our biggest stories of 2014 (see “Recapping 2014: Top stories of the year,”). It’s a reminder of how much goes on in a community as small as Harvard and how much our form of town government demands of its citizens, whether we’re active members of town boards or simply voters asked to weigh in on spending and services. It’s also a reminder of how much is expected of a community newspaper like the Press.
What is the purpose of community journalism like ours? The “Elements of Journalism” by Bill Kovach, Tom Rosenstiel, and the Committee of Concerned Journalists is on the required reading list of just about every journalism course offered in the United States. Its authors have a concise way of answering that question: “The primary purpose of journalism,” they write, “ is to provide citizens with the information they need to be self-governing.” And, we would add, to connect them with the communities they have chosen to call home.
It’s a big job. As a small-circulation weekly, the Harvard Press lacks the resources to hire a professional staff. We’re not backed by a media conglomerate or by foundation money; we depend on our subscribers and advertisers to sustain us. But we see that as an opportunity, not a disadvantage. For our reporting, we depend on local writers who love reporting and writing and want to develop their skills while contributing to their town. We even pay—modestly—for the stories that we publish.
So as the new year begins, we invite readers to consider joining our eclectic staff. Previous writing experience is always welcome but not necessary. We’ll start you off with small, manageable news assignments, but as you gain confidence and skill, we’ll offer opportunities to tackle bigger stories. Or try your hand at profiles, features, or investigative pieces. We coach and support our reporters individually and at our writers’ meetings, where we plan the week’s news and features and discuss how we can improve. That’s part of our mission, too.
Interested? Email us at editor@harvardpress.com. We’d like to hear from you.
