Community newspapers are a big deal to residents, according to the National Newspaper Association’s fifth readership survey.

Seventy-eight percent of those asked say they read most or all of their community newspaper, and 55 percent say they found their local news on that paper’s Web site.

That’s us, folks, and bringing the news to you is important to us, as well. We’re just as engaged with the stories we cover as you are when reading them. From sticky city council issues to students singing at Carnegie Hall to athletes winning wrestling or swimming titles — we’re right there with you.

I’ve been in the community newspaper business for 20 years — starting with the Los Altos Town Crier in northern California and here with the Northshore Citizen and the Reporter — and I wouldn’t change anything I’ve done over those two decades. I could have gone the daily route a long time ago, but opted for the weekly papers because I feel as if I’m part of the community, not just visiting to get a story and then heading back to my office in the big city.

When I go out on assignments, I see coaches, teachers and residents that were here when I started in this area 13 years ago. This area is important to them, and they want to read what’s going on in their town — all things, big and small.

If you like what you’re reading, let us know. If we’ve missed out on something, give us a call or send an e-mail. Send a letter to the editor about your opinion on a local issue. Get involved, and we’ll continue to do the same.

Hopefully those survey numbers will be even higher next year.