The Southeast Missourian on Tuesday launched a new online service for subscribers that will provide facsimile copies of the print version of the newspaper.

The new digital e-Edition gives a complete view of every page of the newspaper, and allows readers to search for specific stories, reprint advertisements and coupons, view photos and more, publisher Jon Rust said.

"Some readers told us they wanted to see an online layout that resembled the traditional print edition," Rust said. "Well, now they have it. The digital e-Edition also allows us to immediately deliver the full newspaper to readers outside the region who previously had to wait for days to receive their copies by mail."

The e-Edition is part of a continuing effort to provide a more attractive Web site with features designed to keep readers checking back throughout the day, Rust said. Other new features recently added include a reader comment section for every news and sports story, editorial, column or feature.

"There is now an area for an immediate dialogue over issues," Rust said.

In addition, the Southeast Missourian's reporters are updating stories and breaking news every day, with up to a dozen news items added each day, Rust said.

The online e-Edition will be free initially on a trial basis. The portion of the Web site dedicated to the e-Edition will contain 30 days worth of newspapers.

"In the future, nonsubscribers to the print edition will have to pay for the service," Rust said. "Print subscribers, meanwhile, will continue to have access, as well as other online benefits yet to be announced, at no charge."

rkeller@semissourian.com

335-6611 extension 126