For more than 100 years The Christian Science Monitor has been a recognized source of international news. Now it makes history, transfering its news coverage from the daily newspaper to its web site.

Most probably it is only the first of many newspapers to do so. The Monitor, as numerous other papers, have seen a continuous downward trend in circulation for years.

The purpose “is to secure and enlarge the Monitor’s role in its second century,” claims Mary Trammell, editor in chief of The Christian Science Monitor. The media company now upgrades it’s web site as well as launches a weekly magazine.

It is a risky action. But also very brave. And The Monitor might very well look back at its decision  in a few years recognizing that it did indeed save its future. Being the first to make the shift may have brought some benefits compared to the competition.

Which paper will be next? I don’t know. Maybe Andrew Keen is right on?

He speculates: ” The Los Angeles Times will probably be next, followed by the San Francisco Chronicle.”

The Monitor will not be alone, that is for sure.