Virtual Proof of Reading

Increase in Online Reading of Newspapers

Newspapers Online: 2007 Record Setting Year
By Marisa Peacock
Jan 25. 2008
Filed Under: newspapers nielsen online publishing web publishing

If there is any doubt that users are going online to read their news, there’s finally proof to dissuade you from thinking otherwise.

According to data released in a new report by Nielsen Online for the Newspaper Association of America (NAA), average monthly unique audience figures for newspaper Web sites grew by more than 3.6 million in 2007. This is a record year for the industry and an increase of more than six percent over 2006 numbers.

In addition, monthly unique visitors to these sites averaged 62.8 million in last year’s fourth quarter. This itself is a record as it is the largest in any quarter since NAA began tracking online usage in January 2004.

Interestingly, October proved to be a boom for newspaper Web sites as they experienced more than 63.2 million people, more than any month on record.

Well, this does make perfect sense. Where do most adults spend there time at work? I wanted post that people are reading as much news print as in 2006. The truth of the matter is that at least people are still reading. This does not say much about what they are reading, however. That would be interesting to know.

Why was there a peak in October?

If the average Googler is hopping around and stops to get the weather or read the sports section are they expecting it gratis or are they willing to pause and pay for a subscription?

Any thoughts?

Here is a link to the story:

http://www.cmswire.com/cms/web-publishing/newspapers-online-2007-record-setting-year-002243.php