Comprehensive Guide to Newspapers in Maine

Maine’s rich history and tight-knit communities have cultivated a diverse and vibrant local press landscape. From bustling cities to serene coastal villages, newspapers continue to be the lifeblood of regional communication, offering crucial insights into both local events and broader societal trends. This guide delves into the key newspapers operating in Maine, offering readers a clear overview of publications serving various communities throughout the state.

Major Daily Newspapers in Maine

Bangor Daily News

Based in Bangor, this publication is a cornerstone of Maine journalism. With comprehensive statewide coverage and in-depth reporting, the Bangor Daily News remains a trusted source for breaking news, political insights, and community stories. Known for its investigative journalism, it plays a vital role in keeping Mainers informed.

Portland Press Herald

Operating out of Portland, the Portland Press Herald is widely regarded as Maine’s leading newspaper. It delivers robust coverage on regional news, economic developments, and cultural happenings. The publication’s commitment to quality journalism ensures it remains a vital resource for both city residents and those in surrounding areas.

Kennebec Journal

Based in Augusta, the state capital, the Kennebec Journal is renowned for its political coverage and reporting on government affairs. It serves communities in central Maine, offering a mix of local news, sports, and opinion pieces.

Sun Journal

Headquartered in Lewiston, the Sun Journal provides extensive coverage of Androscoggin County and nearby regions. It balances local human-interest stories with broader news, making it a trusted news source for families, businesses, and professionals in central Maine.

Regional and Community Newspapers

Maine’s sense of community is reflected in its robust array of smaller newspapers, which often provide hyper-local coverage. These publications serve as the backbone of community engagement and information-sharing in towns and villages across the state.

Morning Sentinel (Waterville)

The Morning Sentinel is a key source of news for the greater Waterville area, focusing on local events, sports, and community updates. The paper’s extensive coverage of city happenings and local government ensures that residents stay connected.

The Times Record (Brunswick)

The Times Record offers detailed coverage of Brunswick and nearby coastal communities. Its focus on regional news, lifestyle features, and editorial content makes it an essential read for locals invested in their community.

The Daily Bulldog (Farmington)

Operating exclusively online, The Daily Bulldog serves the Farmington area with daily updates on local news, events, and community highlights. Its digital presence reflects the growing trend of online-first regional reporting.

The Bar Harbor Times (Bar Harbor)

Published weekly, the Bar Harbor Times offers thorough reporting on local issues, tourism, and community events in Bar Harbor and nearby areas. Its coverage is particularly significant for residents and the many visitors who flock to this scenic coastal town.

University and Student Newspapers

Maine’s academic institutions have long supported a tradition of student journalism, offering insights into both campus life and broader social issues.

The Bates Student (Lewiston)

Published weekly by Bates College students, The Bates Student covers campus news, student life, and issues relevant to the academic community. Its engaging articles and opinion pieces reflect the voices of a new generation of leaders.

The Bowdoin Orient (Brunswick)

As one of the oldest college newspapers in the country, The Bowdoin Orient is an essential part of the Bowdoin College community. It offers weekly updates on campus events, student activism, and academic developments.

The Colby Echo (Waterville)

The Colby Echo provides in-depth coverage of Colby College, blending campus news with thoughtful analysis on national and global issues. Published weekly, it remains a vital part of the student experience in Waterville.

Weekly and Monthly Newspapers

Many small towns and rural areas in Maine rely on weekly and monthly publications to stay informed. These newspapers play a crucial role in maintaining community connections, offering a blend of news, announcements, and feature stories.

The Lincoln County News (Damariscotta)

A staple of the Damariscotta area, The Lincoln County News delivers weekly coverage of local events, business updates, and government affairs. The publication’s dedication to community reporting ensures it remains a trusted source for its readers.

The Quoddy Tides (Eastport)

Serving the Downeast region, The Quoddy Tides is renowned for its focus on environmental issues, local history, and cultural happenings. Published bi-weekly, it connects residents with their coastal heritage and serves as a platform for regional voices.

The Weekly Sentinel (Wells)

Published every Friday, The Weekly Sentinel covers southern Maine, offering a mix of local news, advertisements, and event announcements. It is particularly popular among local businesses and residents keen on community developments.

Notable Defunct Newspapers

Over the years, several historic newspapers have left their mark on Maine’s journalistic landscape. Although they no longer publish, their legacy endures through archives and local memories.

Evening Express (Portland)

Operating from 1882 to 1991, the Evening Express was once a prominent newspaper in Portland, known for its daily coverage of city news and events. Despite ceasing publication, it remains a significant part of Maine’s journalistic history.

The Journal Tribune (Biddeford)

After 135 years of publication, The Journal Tribune closed in 2019, leaving behind a rich history of serving southern Maine communities with news and sports coverage.