The Chicago Reader has laid off staff to cut costs amid financial struggles, raising concerns about its future.
Chicago: So, the Chicago Reader just laid off six non-union workers this week. They’re trying to save some cash and avoid shutting down completely. The publisher, Solomon Lieberman, even resigned the day before the layoffs were announced.
Since the Chicago Sun-Times sold the Reader back in 2018, things have been tough. The paper has been losing money, which has led to some serious operational issues. They’re now saying they’re at an “imminent risk of closure.”
To tackle this, the Reader is planning to change how they operate. They want to boost their donor outreach and crowdfunding efforts. Plus, they’re looking to secure advance payments and partnerships to help with advertising. They’re really pushing for a revenue-focused strategy, and they’re doing it with a sense of urgency.
Amber Nettles, the Reader’s publisher, expressed their commitment to keeping the paper alive. She thanked everyone for their support during this tough time and promised to do everything possible to preserve the Reader’s legacy.
