A daily newspaper is a periodical publication containing news and information on current events. The term is most often applied to printed newspapers, but electronic media such as radio and television can also be considered daily news. Newspapers are usually published on a daily or weekly basis, and cover a wide variety of topics. Some are highly specialized in subject matter, while others target specific groups of readers. In the United States, most newspapers are private businesses with revenue primarily generated through subscription and newsstand sales, although some receive some government or charitable support. Regardless of ownership, most newspapers strive for objectivity in their reporting, and some are considered to be newspapers of record.
The newspaper business has changed significantly with the advent of digital technology. Computers have revolutionized the process of publishing, allowing for color photographs and graphics and more interactive and online content. Moreover, the printing industry has moved away from low-quality letterpress printing to high-quality four-color process offset printing. Desktop computers have also made it easier for editors to create and edit articles. Nevertheless, the traditional newsroom still plays a key role in producing the newspaper.
In addition to standard news stories and features, most newspapers also publish opinions on important issues by staff writers. These are called editorials and are generally located on a separate page from the main news sections. Other opinions of outside writers and readers are expressed in the op-ed (“opposite the editorial”) and letters to the editor sections. Some newspapers, particularly those with a strong liberal bias, have ombudsmen who investigate complaints of biased or unfair reporting.
Most newspapers are based in large cities or towns and are read by residents and travelers alike. Some have offices in the country’s capital city, while others maintain a regional focus or are devoted to certain subject areas such as local news or sports. A few, especially those with high editorial independence and quality journalism, are viewed as newspapers of record.
Founded on January 28, 1878, the Yale Daily News is the oldest college daily newspaper in the United States and serves the communities of Yale University and New Haven, Connecticut. The News’ historical archive contains digitized versions of its printed issues.
The News’ headquarters are in the 220 East 42nd Street building, an architectural landmark designed by John Mead Howells and Raymond Hood. A bench in the lobby commemorates the site of the first-ever news photograph. The News relocated to a larger building on West 33rd Street in 1995. The News owns WPIX-TV and an FM radio station whose call letters are derived from the News’ nickname, and it is also a co-owner of the Broadway theater the Daily News Building. The bench from the old News’ building is currently in the lobby of its new location. It features a photo of the News’ first story, which featured a fire at the Brooklyn Bridge. The Daily News also has a small museum in its lobby that features a copy of the original newspaper and several historic photographs of the News.