Idaho Commission for Libraries

Please help the Idaho library community document our growing needs for technology and connectivity by participating in the 2009-2010 Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study online survey, open through November 6, 2009 at www.plinternetsurvey.org.

What is this study?
Conducted by the American Library Association (ALA) and the Center for Library & Information Innovation at the University of Maryland and funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the study gathers important data regarding public library Internet connectivity, use, funding, and services.

Why does this matter?
The findings of data-gathering surveys like this are used for advocacy efforts on behalf of libraries, decision making regarding critical resources, and support for the Library Services and Technology Act and other initiatives. At the local level, the data can help you plan services, assess your library’s needs, identify your library’s contributions to your community, and educate your stakeholders and funders.

What about Idaho?
State and national information from the most recently completed study is available at www.ala.org/ala/research/initiatives/plftas/2008_2009/librariesconnectco... but if you browse the 2009 State Summaries, pages 77-123, you’ll notice there is no entry for Idaho. Why Not? A minimum 60% response rate is needed to have enough data for a state summary and the researchers didn't receive enough survey responses from our state to include a breakdown.

Be heard, then register to win an Amazon Kindle
Earlier this fall, ALA sent a letter to public library directors requesting participation in this 2009-2010 study. If your library has already completed the survey, thank you. If not, please make it a priority so Idaho libraries are represented in the national debate for funding. If you have any questions regarding the survey, please e-mail support@plinternetsurvey.org or call (301) 405-9445.

Upon completion of the survey, you may register to win an Amazon Kindle.