Idaho Commission for Libraries

“Site visits to 63 public libraries reveal the power of technology on staff and users.”

I just read an article in the October 2008 issue of American Libraries titled “Libraries Connect Communities.” Authors Peggy Barber and Linda Wallace share what they learned as part of the team conducting the Public Library Funding and Technology Access Study.

The study included a nationwide survey of libraries (the 2008 survey is underway now); focus groups with library employees, trustees, and users; and library site visits.

In the article, the authors share what staff told them:

• technology is a selling point for the library
• economic issues mean more reliance of gifts, fundraising, and grants

Members of the public shared the reasons why the use the public library and how they used the public access computers.

The report referenced in the article is available online. Upon reading it, you'll notice that there isn't a lot of break-out data on Idaho. The researchers didn't receive enough survey responses from our state to include a breakdown. However, they are currently accepting surveys for the follow-up study with 2008 data. Please complete the survey before November 7th to help Idaho be more accurately reflected in the national report.