I usually cringe whenever I have to visit the Lancaster Newspaper’s Web site, LancasterOnline.com. Visually it’s a mess and frankly I can never find what I’m looking for via the site’s built in search (I usually end up using Google to search their site). And I think it’s hysterical that the site’s favicon is “LOL” — because, let’s face it, the site is a joke.

That said you can imagine it was with some reservation that I downloaded the new Lancaster Online iPhone App. (Available on iTunes, search term “Lancaster Online”. Honestly I would share the link but I can’t find it on their site!) Watching the progress bar as the app found its way to my iPhone I thought, “I’ll be deleting this app soon, what a waste of time.” But once I opened it and started using it I was pleasantly surprised. The interface is clean and easy to use. Stories are accessed with stacked, horizontal scroll wheels, and a simple yet intuitive interface. The app gives you access to the most current stories, video, pictures and weather (including radar and video). Stories are formatted in print that’s easy to read on a mobile device, and has an option to share via email, text, Twitter or Facebook. You can even upload photos directly to Lancaster Online from the app. (I’m not sure what happens to them once uploaded as I haven’t tried this feature yet.)

On the down side, I couldn’t help notice the app’s lack of a search function — an option I assumed would be included. I guess LOL doesn’t want you to find older stories on their site or on their mobile apps. And it is ad-supported, which isn’t too intrusive until you’re trying to watch a video. But at least it’s free.

Overall, not a bad effort on their part. I may be tempted to give up my morning paper and go completely digital (yes, I still enjoy reading the actual paper). There is a version available for Android phones as well. We’ll look into that as soon as Anne gets her new Droid, Nexus One Phone or whatever cool new offering Verizon has when she finally gets around to making a decision.

Update: looks like the App is back in the store. Download it via iTunes.