In downtown Prescott, something small is making a big impact.
The City’s magazine racks, first installed in 2019 using bed tax funds, have long served as a point of connection for residents and visitors alike. But over time, the program needed realignment to better reflect the vibrancy, quality and identity of Prescott today.
This year, the city undertook a complete revitalization of the Magazine Rack Program, transforming it into a curated, high-quality platform that tells Prescott’s story with intention. That transformation started with the details.
Each rack has been cleaned and refreshed, with graffiti and outdated stickers removed to restore a polished, welcoming appearance in our downtown spaces.
From there, the program itself was rebuilt with clear standards: publications must be free, professionally produced and rich in meaningful editorial content.
The focus has shifted toward what matters most to our community: arts and culture, local journalism, events, economic development, tourism and the outdoor lifestyle that defines Prescott.
Through a competitive selection process, 17 publications were chosen to fill the City’s five downtown racks. Each one reflects the character and energy of our region, offering readers valuable, relevant information. Notably, the inclusion of our local newspaper, now available in three locations with convenient coin-operated access, adds a new level of daily connectivity for both residents and visitors.
This isn’t just about magazines. It’s about stewardship of public space.
City-owned racks are community assets, and this refreshed program ensures they are thoughtfully managed, visually appealing and aligned with Prescott’s values. Gone are the days of cluttered, ad-heavy materials. In their place: purposeful content, trusted publications and a cohesive experience that elevates downtown.
The result is a program that not only informs but represents. One that supports local publishers, enhances the visitor experience, and reinforces Prescott as a place of quality, authenticity and opportunity.
Sometimes, the most meaningful improvements aren’t the most obvious, they’re the ones that quietly raise the standard for everyone.
And in Prescott, even a magazine rack can help tell a better story.
