Millions of Americans Used Library Computers Last Year
Last year, as the country struggled to recover from a prolonged economic slowdown, millions of individuals relied on library
technology to find work, apply for college, secure government benefits, learn about critical medical treatments, and connect with
their communities, a new report from the University of Washington Information School finds.
Based on surveys of nearly 50,000 individuals at 400 libraries across the country, the report, Opportunity for All: How the American Public Benefits from Internet Access at U.S. Libraries (212 pages), found that nearly one-third of Americans age 14 or older — some 77 million individuals — used a public library computer or wireless network to access the Internet over the past year. Sixty percent of those individuals used a library computer to connect with others; 40 percent received help with career needs; 37 percent focused on health issues; 42 percent received help with educational needs, 37 percent of whom used a library computer to do homework.
Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the report found that low-income adults were more likely to rely on the public library for their access to computers and the Internet than any other income group, with 44 percent of people living below the federal poverty line having used computers and the Internet at their public libraries. Teenagers were found to be the most active users of library Internet services, with half the nation’s 14- to 18-year-olds reporting that they used a library computer during the past year, typically to do homework.
The library’s role as a technology resource has exploded since 1996, when only 28 percent of libraries offered Internet access. But while almost all public libraries now offer visitors free access to computers and the Internet, up to a third say they lack even minimally adequate Internet connections to meet demand.
“Library technology services have created opportunity for millions of Americans, but public libraries struggle to replace aging computer workstations and increase the speed of their Internet connections,” said Allan Golston, president of the Gates Foundation’s United States Program. “This study highlights what is at risk, particularly for low-income individuals who heavily rely on the public library for their technology, if future public and private investment in public libraries doesn’t keep pace with demand.”
“First-Ever National Study: Millions of People Rely on Library Computers for Employment, Health, and Education.” Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Press Release 3/25/10.
Oppotunity for ALL
How the American Public Benefits from Internet Access at U.S. Libraries
The U.S. IMPACT Study
A research initiative examining the impact of free access to computers and the Internet in public libraries.
