June 28, 2005

US Libraries and the Net

Library Internet access better than ever Anick Jesdanun, AP via Globe and Mail (June 24)

The American Library Association has released a report on the use of the Internet in US public libraries.

+ "99.6 per cent of libraries are now connected to Internet, with all but a handful offering access to the public. That compares with 20.9 per cent in 1994 when the study was first conducted."
+ there are shortages - 70% can't cover peak periods, 16% are always short.
+ Only 42% of libraries have high speed access; 73% in urban, 34% in rural. 18% offer wireless.
+ "Only 28 per cent offer regularly scheduled classes — 16 per cent in rural areas."
+

Posted by Gwen at June 28, 2005 02:43 PM