The "Chronicling America" project at the Library of Congress (see url) has a searchable database of newspapers (1690 on) & where preserved images exist. What's the benefit of doing this, if any?

Absolutely. Been there, in fact. lol
Great for amateurs too - no matter what the topical interest - to see what words and images exist over many decades/centuries and many localities.
I even like looking at the advertising!
Need to find a unicycle? Or maybe a potion or two for what ails you? LOL
Thanks ... :)

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by debtahals wears a curiosity COAT on April 17th, 2009

Absolutely, this helps.
(1) Access for anyone - not just academia
(2) Vintage & historical newspapers can provide social & cultural context - not only for history buffs & professionals - but for writers needing "reality context" for past decades. This can make their fiction more authentic.
THanks a lot. Nice answer. :)

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by debtahals wears a curiosity COAT on April 18th, 2009

Understood. There's benefit for someone other than ourselves or benefit for ourselves or no benefit for anyone! (Which cuts to the relative importance of finding, organizing & claiming historical objects, sites, buildings, records, books, etc.)
Sounds to me like you're not very interested in searching for "primary evidence" like these original newspapers any more than you're likely to go put on a helmet & join an archeaological dig! lol
However, you see the value of those who love doing that .. and from what's found .. come up with theories of "what happened" so we might learn something or maybe even change something we're currently doing or thinking or supporting. Then, you like to occasionally look in on their books or documentaries or cable programming - agree or disagree, but know a bit more - then head on your way again. :)
Did you know (bringing this from 1600s to 2000s) that it took a group of groups with LAWYERS to make sure the VR's records (Cheney) would be preserved?

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by debtahals wears a curiosity COAT on April 18th, 2009

True enough.
Would you personally have any use for or interest in historic newpaper content?

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by debtahals wears a curiosity COAT on April 17th, 2009

I've used it in college, and will never use it again :P

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by Kallous on April 17th, 2009

Sorry to hear that, actually - but if you see it as that necessary evil that got you through a class or seminar but nothing really to do with you .. then ok .. I hear you. Guess you're just glad to have the research work over with?
For me? I'm delighted they have a way for me to learn what was published when .. and which repository might have issues available .. on microfilm or digitized.
They went ahead with the digital side for a handful of states. Hurray! A good start on a project I hope they continue on with.
Thanks!

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by debtahals wears a curiosity COAT on April 17th, 2009