Broadband Adoption and the Role of the Public Library: Issues and Solutions
June 26, 1:30-3:30 PM
Washington Convention Center 147A

Public Libraries across the country are reporting a dramatic increase in the number of patrons coming in to use the public access computers – and the Internet. Many libraries talk about lines for computers forming before the library opens in the morning and many more have full computer sign-up sheets well in advance.

What is driving this growing trend? As more and more resources go online, people turn to the library to access federal and state tax forms, job applications, financial aid forms, and the like.

These patrons are most likely “non-adopters” – someone who does not have broadband Internet access at home. Many of these patrons need help with basic computer skills as well as help setting up email accounts and navigating websites.

Why do people not have broadband at home? What are the barriers preventing them from using a computer and the Internet? And what does this have to do with public library services? In the online digital landscape, libraries are filling an important niche and the work they are doing has been recognized at the national level.

The release of the National Broadband Plan by the Federal Communications Commission has focused national attention on ensuring ubiquitous access to broadband. However, there are significant challenges to meeting that goal. With 35% of the population without broadband at home, it is critical to address the social and economic impact and resolve the barriers for this segment of the population. Challenges are multifaceted and solutions will need to take many variables into account.

OITP is hosting a panel discussion that will address some of these issues from the national, state, and local perspective – including challenges for public libraries as non-adopters continue to flock to the library. Panelists will talk about specific concerns for vulnerable populations and present possible strategies for libraries that find themselves on the front lines. You will also hear about a collaborative effort currently underway to reach non-adopters led by the New Mexico State Library. Panelists include, Mark Lloyd, Associate General Counsel/Chief Diversity Officer for the Federal Communications Commission, Susan Oberlander, New Mexico State Librarian, and Dharma Dailey, independent researcher for the Social Science Research Council.

2010 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition

SSRC Report: Broadband Adoption in Low-Income Communities (2010)