Libraries and the Digital Divide
By: Angela Lee

Libraries are so important in the digital divide of today. They provide those who do not have access to technology the means to stay current with the rest of society. Without libraries that offer free internet use and computer access, many people would have to go without. Children and those who need the internet to do homework, research, or type a paper are able to complete these at the library even if they cannot do this from home. Adults who need access to computers and the internet to find jobs or complete other tasks are able to do so because the library provides free internet access. In the article "Changing Needs, Changing Roles: How Public Libraries are Expanding Traditional Service to Best Serve Their Communities", author Joseph Thompson says "The Digital Divide is an ongoing problem" and the public library is possibly the only place that provides all people with access to quality internet. This is a great service that the library is providing, however, this requires the staff at libraries to be trained and able to help their patrons. Additionally, most libraries face budget issues and current computers and other technology may be in issue. Just as libraries provide important services to encourage reading and literacy, libraries are providing vital technology services that too many people in America do not have access to from their homes. It is essential that libraries provide this so that everyone has access to technology, but internet service and technology should be more affordable so that everyone can use it from home too. It is clear that the internet is not going anywhere and so many aspects of our lives require internet and technology access. In addition to providing internet and technology services to all patrons, many libraries also offer programs that encourage science and other creative skills. Thompson suggests libraries partner with government agencies to provide these services. Ideas include "Science Cafes" where families are invited to the library to enjoy a science and technology night. I think this is a great way to motivate kids to find interest with these topics. My 6th grade daughter is interested in science and I would love for her to take part in a program such as this. Another idea Thompson is developing for his library is "The Innovation Lab". The Science Cafe's are such a success the library is hoping to develop a "community digital media lab [that] will serve as a creativity space for digital media production". What a wonderful program to offer at the library. So many schools have had huge budget cuts that this is a great way to still let students from all backgrounds be exposed to these technologies. Without libraries, many Americans would not have access to vital programs, the internet, computers, and other technologies. Libraries assure that all people, regardless of income and background, are able to stay connected during the digital divide of our society. I've included a Tedx talk YouTube video featuring technology entrepreneur Andrew Roskill. He says how Amazon, Apple, and Google have given libraries competition as information leaders and has tips on how libraries can improve their services. I liked what he had to say but budget issues will be a hindrance to some of his ideas. He also said how important libraries were in providing a "bridge to the digital divide."

Works Cited

Thompson, Joseph. "Changing Needs, Changing Roles." Reference & User Services Quarterly 54.3 (2015): 2-5 Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts. Web.      9 Apr. 2015.

Roskill, Andrew. "Get a Read on This - Libraries Bridging the Digital Divide" Tedx Talks. YouTube. YouTube, LLC., 14, May 2014. Web. 9 Apr. 2015