Hat tip to the FL-LIB listserv for forwarding this gem...
The American Library Association (ALA) released a new report today on the technology opportunities and challenges faced by U.S. public libraries in the wake of the economic recession. "Libraries Connect Communities 3: Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study 2008-2009" found that "more than 71% of all libraries (and 79% of rural libraries) report they are the only source of free access to computers and the Internet in their communities. Sixty-six percent of public libraries rank job-seeking services among the most crucial online services they offer – up from 44% two years ago. Eighty percent of libraries report helping patrons connect with government information and services – including unemployment forms, Food Stamps and tax information – online."
View additonal details regardng the study at http://www.ala.org/ala/research/initiatives/plftas/2008_2009/index.cfm
Find state data here:
http://www.ala.org/ala/research/initiatives/plftas/2008_2009/statesummaries.cfm
Note: All public libraries are being invited to take the 2009-2010 survey. Deadline is November 6, 2009.
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