Half a century ago, the Reader proved that newspapers could reach a large, diverse audience by making the paper free. That paved the way for 50 years of vibrant, creative alternative city papers throughout the country.
But times change. Over the past few years, many people have tried to write the eulogy for the alt-weekly. Here in Chicago, we’re writing a different story—by proving that a nonprofit, reader-supported alternative paper can still be a vital part of the city.
We’re hoping 50 years from now, people will look back and say that this was the beginning of the next great era of alternative city papers—and that it started right here, in Chicago.
And you’ll be able to say that you were part of it.
Before the clock strikes midnight, become a member of the Chicago Reader.
