Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study
Op-Ed template (August 2012)
[State data for 5th paragraph at http://www.plinternetsurvey.org (make selection in “Your
State” box]
Headline suggestions:
Today’s Public Libraries: Your Dynamic Digital Hub
Today’s Public Libraries: Digital Hub with “Killer Apps”
Quick! Name a community-based resource in [name of community] that offers free
computer and internet access, computer training classes, and features research for small
businesses.
If you’re surprised to learn that it’s our public library in [name of community], it’s been way
too long since you visited this dynamic digital community hub.
For public libraries, the combination of technology investment and broadband deployment
yields a cross section of resources: it’s the go-to venue for free computer and internet
access, digital literacy initiatives, as well as databases for small businesses.
New national research documents the two “killer apps” for technology in today’s libraries:
job search and e-government.
The state-wide data for [name of state] reports that over 92 percent of public libraries
provide resources and assistance to job seekers and 97 percent are used for access to
e-government services including unemployment, health care, and tax information.
The new public library statistics are findings from the 2012 American Library Association’s
Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates
Foundation.
Throughout [name of community], we’ve witnessed how technology investment has
changed our public libraries into digital community hubs: both the technology and staff can
guide you to online government resources, serving as a support model for across the state.
Job seekers know that it’s nearly impossible to apply for a job without computer access and
an e-mail address. Repeatedly, state and national data point to the library as the number
one, and sometimes only option for internet access for those unable to afford home service.
Here in [name of community], our library provides a wide range of targeted programs and
services to meet the changing needs of our community. [List 2-3 examples for job seekers]
We’ve made strategic investments in [name of community’s] library that must be sustained
and broadened. Libraries are part of the solution for Americans struggling to regain their
footing in uncertain economic times. Keep library doors open with sufficient staffing – so
they can be the partner needed in our financial recovery.
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