Libraries and IT: Role of library computers for Americans

The report, “Opportunity for All: How the American Public Benefits from Internet Access at U.S. Libraries”, is based on the first, large-scale study of who uses public computers and Internet access in public libraries in the United States, the ways library patrons use this free technology service, why they use it, and how it affects their lives. It was conducted by the University of Washington Information School and funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The report’s findings are based on nearly 50,000 surveys – including 3,176 from a national telephone survey and 44,881 web survey responses – from patrons of more than 400 public libraries across the country. Low-income adults are more likely to rely on the public library as their sole access to computers and the Internet than any other income group.

Overall, 44 percent of people living below the federal poverty line used computers and the Internet at their public libraries. Americans across all age groups reported they used library computers and Internet access.

Teenagers are the most active users. Half of the nation’s 14 - to 18-year-olds reported that they used a library computer during the past year, typically to do school homework. More than three-quarters of those who used the library Internet connections had access at home, work, or elsewhere. Oftentimes, they needed a faster connection, assistance from a librarian, or temporary access in an emergency.

Over 77 million people – used a public library computer or wireless network to access the Internet in 2009, according to a national report. In 2009, as the nation struggled through a recession, people relied on library technology to find work, apply for college, secure government benefits, learn about critical medical treatments, and connect with their communities.

- 40 percent of library computer users (an estimated 30 million people) received help with career needs. Among these users, 75 percent reported they searched for a job online. Half of these users filled out an online application or submitted a resume.

- 37 percent focused on health issues. The vast majority of these users (82 percent) logged on to learn about a disease, illness, or medical condition. One-third of these users sought out doctors or health care providers. Of these, about half followed up by making appointments for care.

- 42 percent received help with educational needs. Among these users, 37 percent (an estimated 12 million students) used their local library computer to do homework for a class.

Library computers linked patrons to their government, communities, and civic organizations. Sixty-percent of users – 43.3 million people – used a library’s computer resources to connect with others.