In an era when local newspapers are closing at an alarming rate, My Local Press offers a refreshing solution that combines modern convenience with the timeless appeal of a printed page. This platform gives independent journalists and community publishers a low-overhead way to launch and run local news outlets, and its new printable newspaper edition brings the tactile experience of a physical paper back to readers without the crushing costs that have shuttered so many hometown publications.
My Local Press is more than just a digital news aggregator; it’s a full-fledged publishing ecosystem. From the moment a journalist signs up at MyLocalPress.com, they gain access to tools for writing, hosting live video newscasts, selling local advertising and coupons, offering subscriber-only content, and accepting donations. The platform keeps only 10% of revenue, passing 90% along to the publisher. Now, with the printable edition, those same stories can be laid out as a traditional newspaper, ready to print at home or run on a commercial press.
What is My Local Press?
My Local Press is a local news publishing platform created to help independent journalists and community publishers launch and run profitable local news businesses without the overhead of traditional newspaper infrastructure. Founded by co-founder Adam Smith, the platform has grown to nearly 4,000 publishers since its launch in January 2026. It is designed to be accessible from a smartphone or desktop, making it easy for anyone to start covering their community immediately.
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The platform’s core offering includes a suite of digital tools that cover every aspect of modern news publishing. Journalists can publish articles, embed live video broadcasts, sell advertising space and coupons, create subscriber-only sections, and accept reader donations—all from one dashboard. The new printable edition extends this functionality by turning digital content into a physical product that readers can hold, fold, and read over coffee.
What Stands Out
Printable Newspaper Edition
The standout feature is the ability to generate a print-ready newspaper from any My Local Press news feed. Publishers can select stories, arrange them in a traditional layout, and output a PDF that fits standard letter-size paper or three larger press sizes. This makes it possible to produce everything from a single kitchen-table copy to a full press run for distribution at newsstands, coffee shops, or office lobbies.
Low-Cost Alternative to Traditional Print
Printing and postage costs are among the most common reasons community papers close. My Local Press eliminates those barriers by letting publishers print only what they need, when they need it. There are no minimum orders, no expensive contracts with printing plants, and no subscription to a costly distribution network. This flexibility is a game changer for small operations.
Comprehensive Digital Toolkit
Beyond printing, the platform offers a full range of digital publishing tools. Journalists can host live newscasts, sell targeted local ads, and offer premium content to subscribers. The ability to accept reader donations with a 90% revenue share provides a sustainable income stream. All of these features work together seamlessly, allowing publishers to build a multimedia local news brand.
Reader Engagement and Reach
The printable edition also helps reach readers who are not online, including older residents and customers of local businesses. Publishers can post printed issues in an online archive and map the locations where paper copies are available, making it easy for readers to find and pick up a physical paper. This blend of digital and print creates a comprehensive community connection.
Who It’s For
My Local Press is ideal for independent journalists who want to start a local news outlet without the overhead of a traditional newspaper operation. It’s also well-suited for community publishers, hyperlocal bloggers, and even civic organizations that want to keep residents informed. Anyone who has ever dreamed of running a hometown paper but was daunted by costs will find My Local Press a practical, low-risk entry point.
The platform is also valuable for readers who miss the feel of a printed newspaper. With the printable edition, subscribers can print their own copy at home, preserving the ritual of reading the local paper while supporting independent journalism. Local businesses can also benefit by advertising in a format that reaches both online and offline audiences.
What Makes It Worth Considering
My Local Press addresses a critical need in local journalism: sustainability. By drastically reducing printing and distribution costs, it removes the primary financial barrier that has forced thousands of newspapers to close. The platform’s business model is transparent and publisher-friendly, with a generous revenue split and no hidden fees.
Furthermore, the combination of digital and print tools gives publishers the best of both worlds. They can build an online audience while also serving readers who prefer a physical newspaper. This hybrid approach strengthens community ties and opens additional revenue streams through printed ads and distribution partnerships. For anyone serious about covering local news, My Local Press offers a credible and forward-thinking path forward.
Verdict
My Local Press is a powerful, accessible platform that brings the printed local newspaper into the 21st century. Its printable edition is a thoughtful innovation that respects tradition while eliminating the cost barriers that have ended so many community papers. With a comprehensive suite of digital tools and a publisher-friendly revenue model, it is a standout solution for independent journalists and community publishers alike. Whether you’re looking to start a new local news outlet or extend the reach of an existing one, My Local Press deserves serious consideration.
Frequently asked questions
My Local Press is a platform that lets independent journalists launch and run local news outlets with tools for publishing, video, advertising, and now printing.
Publishers or readers can turn a local news feed or saved stories into a newspaper layout that can be printed at home or on a commercial press.
Yes, editions can be printed in color or black and white, depending on your printer or press.
New users can sign up for free at MyLocalPress.com; revenue sharing is based on earnings from ads and donations.
It's designed for independent journalists, community publishers, and anyone wanting to cover local news without traditional overhead.
Standard letter size for home printers and three larger press sizes for commercial printing and mass distribution.
The platform has grown to nearly 4,000 publishers since launching in January 2026.
