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Posted on September 28, 2006 print e-mail


Public Libraries Stretched to Meet Demand for Technology Services, Study Finds

Today, 99 percent of all U.S. public libraries provide computers with free access to the Internet, compared to 25 percent a decade ago, but lack of continued funding could result in a new digital divide, a report from the Information Use Management & Policy Institute at Florida State University finds.

Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the American Library Association, the report, Public Libraries and the Internet 2006, found that 71 percent of librarians say the most important benefit of the increase in the number of libraries with computers is the ability to provide Internet access to those who otherwise wouldn't have it. Despite increased demand for computer time, however, libraries typically have not seen corresponding increases in their budgets, and many — particularly in rural areas — are challenged to provide enough computers with adequate Internet connections to meet demand.

According to the report, 45 percent of U.S. public libraries reported no increase or a drop in program funding for computers this year, while only 20.7 percent of library branches said they had enough computer workstations. Moreover, with inflation, increased personnel and benefits costs, and a greater demand for technology enhancements, no increase in funding often amounts to a budget cut that affects the overall quality of library services.

"If libraries can't keep up with demand or make technological advancements, people who rely on the library for computer access will be increasingly disadvantaged and a new divide will emerge," said Jill Nishi, manager of the U.S. Libraries Initiative at the Gates Foundation. "It's up to communities and library leaders to ensure that this inequity does not occur, and that libraries can provide quality technology services for generations to come."

“New Study: Today's Public Libraries Are Thriving Technology Hubs That Millions Rely on for First or Only Choice for Internet Access.” Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Press Release 9/26/06.


Primary Subject: Arts and Culture
Secondary Subject(s): Science/Technology
Location(s): National, United States

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