Library funding lags demand for public computing
Posted by Jacque on September 13th, 2007
Despite the fact that access to online employment services and other information sources is increasingly vital to the public’s abiltity to improve their lives, public library funding to provide PCs and access has stagnated.
A newly released study by American Library Association (ALA) and the Information Use Management and Policy Institute at Florida State University (FSU), shows that 58 percent of libraries reported that they have no plans to add computers in the coming year; less than half (46 percent) plan to replace computers. Internet access speeds are inadequate for a majority of libraries (52 percent).
Most public libraries offer free public access to the Internet, but budgets have been unable to keep up with increased patron demand for technology services.
“Today’s public libraries are thriving technology hubs that millions rely on for their first or only choice for Internet access,” said ALA President Loriene Roy. “I often hear from library staff that more and more users are turning to the library for help with online employment applications. One thing is clear: in order for our public libraries to continue to meet the changing needs of our communities and to expand services, we must invest in facilities and staffing that can support technology for all.”
The study found that thousands of libraries across the country also have reached, or are nearing, their maximum capacity for space. Seventy-six percent of public libraries reported that space limitations are the top factor affecting their ability to add computers, while 31 percent of libraries report that the availability of electrical outlets, space for cabling and other infrastructure issues limited their capacity for technology infrastructure.
“Millions of Americans rely on their public library to find jobs, further their education, learn English, get e-government information, and more,” said Allan Golston, president of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s U.S. Program. “Our nation must continue to support public libraries and ensure they are able to provide information and opportunities for all people.”
I’ve seen this phenomenon at work right in my own neighborhood, a solidly middle/working class one with a relatively new library branch that doubled in size and more than tripled its public computers a few years ago. Yet every time I enter the building (pretty often), the PCs are in heavy use and a number of folks have brought their laptops in order to take advantage of the free wireless access provided. When my own PC was not working for a few days I took advantage of the library’s computers and was thankful for them.
You can view the final report here.
