Today, we’re celebrating something we care deeply about: local news.

Across the country, news organizations are marking today, April 9, as the first-ever Local News Day — a moment to recognize the essential role local journalism plays in our communities. And here in Maine, that is especially worth celebrating.

Because local news isn’t just part of the media landscape — it’s part of the fabric of our communities. Across the state, people rely on trusted reporting to understand what’s happening in their towns, their schools, their local economies and their daily lives. When local news is strong, communities are more informed, more connected and more resilient.

That’s why today matters, and why it matters to the more than 300 Mainers who make up the Maine Trust for Local News.

For us, this is a chance to shine a light on the impact of our journalism — from holding institutions accountable to telling the stories that define Maine. It’s also a chance to connect with you, our readers, and celebrate the role local news plays in civic life across the state.

And we’re doing that in a very local way.

Our community reporters are spread out across Maine today, connecting with readers face-to-face at some of their favorite spots (free coffee!) in Bethel, Brunswick, Falmouth, Hallowell, South Portland, Waterville, Westbrook and Windham. It’s a reminder that local journalism doesn’t just cover communities, it’s part of them.

You can find times and locations at pressherald.com/localnewsday. We’d love to see you there.

As part of today’s celebration — and as a community service — we’re also taking down our paywall so anyone can read our work. It’s a great opportunity to explore the reporting that keeps Maine informed.

We’re also excited to share a first look at something new: Press Herald Plus, our all-in-one local news app featuring community and statewide news, top headlines and ePapers.

And if you want to see what local journalism looks like in action, just look at the stories we’re telling every day — legislation that could protect scam victims, how a late-season snowstorm affects vulnerable neighbors, tracking decisions that could shape Maine schools, and celebrating moments that bring our communities together.

These are Maine stories. Your stories.

Local News Day gives us a moment to celebrate that work and to recommit ourselves to keeping it strong for the future.

Because strong local news helps build strong communities.

Thanks for being part of ours.