In a day and age where getting the facts right has never been more important, we join our voices with others across the country for National Newspaper Week to highlight the service of newspapers and their employees.

With the rise of social media, attacks on journalists and questions about the credibility of many online sources, we think the theme for this year’s week is especially fitting: “Journalism matters. Now more than ever.”

Whether it’s through the print copy, your computer or your mobile device, people will always want to know what’s happening in their communities. Newspapers such as the Tribune strive to provide local content you can’t find in larger papers in the state or on national media outlets.

Started in the afternoon of Oct. 15, 1897, the Tribune — then known as The Albert Lea Evening Tribune — printed its first edition in a converted office building at the corner of Broadway and College Street.

Though the location and owners have changed through the years, the purpose is the same: We strive to serve the community through information and to provide a historical record for years to come.

The newspaper provides not only articles about community events and issues, but also vital records such as obituaries and birth announcements, along with wedding and engagement announcements. The newspaper serves as a community watchdog and provides public notices.

With the advent of technology, newspapers have had to change the way they operate. Twenty years ago, people read the print newspaper. Now they can find the Tribune on our website, www.AlbertLeaTribune.com, Facebook, Twitter and in their email inbox.

This technology has made us a stronger community-minded newspaper. Before digital cameras and email, if we couldn’t get to an event there just wouldn’t be any coverage. Now we welcome citizens to submit photos, write-ups, sports scores or stats and much more. Readers can help us put together a better product that includes more local content.

This week and into the future, we ask readers to continue to support local journalists. Help partner with us to support this ongoing dissemination of news to the community.

Our journalists are people who have dedicated their lives to this profession. They strive diligently day in and day out for accuracy and to be a watchdog for the community.

We hope you continue to rely on us as your leading provider of news.