Millions of people rely on our library computers for employment, health and education. One third of Americans, ages 14 and older used a public library computer or wireless network to access the internet this past year. According to the latest Gates survey, during this recession, people use libraries to find work, apply for college, secure government benefits, learn about medical and health care and connect with their communties. Some statistics after the jump:
•Almost 12 million of the country’s 14- to 18-year-olds used library computers in the last year, and a quarter of teens use the library at least once a week.
•One in four Americans use library computers when they travel.
•Two out of three people use computers to help friends or family.
•People of all ages and ethnicities use public library computers.
•Entrepreneurs and those in need of small business assistance were important reasons for library use.
The results came from a random national telephone survey of 3,176 people from April to August, in-person interviews with library patrons in several cities, and an online survey answered by 45,000 people after they logged on to use a public library computer.
Allan Golston, president of the United States Program at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, said in a press release, “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. 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.â€