Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study

2011 Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study: Results, Trends, and Resources
Nov. 1, 1:00 pm Central

Over 8,400 urban, suburban, and rural libraries participated in the 2011 Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study, the largest and longest-running study of Internet connectivity in U.S. public libraries. Key findings include:
§  70% of libraries report increased use of public access computers, while at the same time, over 76% report an insufficient number of public computers to meet demand.
§  65% of libraries report that they are the only source of free public access to computers and the Internet in their communities.
§  67% of libraries offer access to e-books.
§  72% of libraries report that staff help patrons complete online job applications.
§  16% of libraries report decreased hours of operation. This translates to lost hours at more than 2,600 branches.

In this webinar co-sponsored by ALA TechSource, the ALA Office for Research & Statistics, and WebJunction, you will learn how to interpret the data and emerging trends; access new advocacy and marketing tools including state profiles, issue briefs, and PR templates; and use the data to make the case for your library with elected officials and community stakeholders.  Presented by: John Bertot, Co-Director, Information Policy & Access Center, University of Maryland; Judy Hoffman, Project Manager, American Library Association, Office for Research and Statistics; and Peggy Rudd, Director, Texas State Library and Archives Commission.


If you do not have an account with WebJunction and would like to view this webinar visit the WebJunction Minnesota home page, http://mn.webjunction.org. Select [Create Account]. Be sure to affiliate with Minnesota!