[Scla-list] Public libraries urged to participate in national technology study

[Curtis Rogers]

(CHICAGO) The American Library Association (ALA) is encouraging public
libraries to participate in the 2009-2010 Public Library Funding &
Technology Access Study online survey. The survey provides an important
opportunity for libraries to share information regarding their computer
and Internet resources and infrastructure, as well as funding,
technology training and how they function as public access technology
centers in their communities. 

*         The current year's online survey, available at
www.plinternetsurvey.org, will be available through Nov. 6, 2009. 

*         Libraries will need an ID number to participate, which
libraries may look up at http://survey.pnmi.com/lookup.survey. 

*         Questions regarding the survey should be directed to
support at plinternetsurvey.org or (301) 405-9445.

"Library participation in the survey directly impacts the ability of
ALA, state chapters and others to advocate on behalf of public libraries
and the tremendous contribution public libraries make to their
communities through their public access Internet services and
resources," said ALA Office for Research & Statistics Director Denise M.
Davis. "Data from past studies have been used in Congressional
testimony, by the U.S. Census Bureau, and by national and local media."
Recent media mentions, including USA Today and NPR's All Tech Considered
blog, may be viewed here:
http://www.ala.org/ala/research/initiatives/plftas/2008_2009/media.cfm. 

In addition to national data, the research project provides state-level
analysis whenever a representative sample of 60 percent or more of a
state's public libraries participates. These data are used in topical
issues briefs, mapping and the annual report. State and national
information from the most recently completed study is available at
http://www.ala.org/ala/research/initiatives/plftas/2008_2009/index.cfm.

The study, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and ALA,
continues work begun by John Carlo Bertot and Charles R. McClure in
1994.   The survey is conducted by the Center for Library & Information
Innovation at the University of Maryland (www.liicenter.org
<http://www.liicenter.org/> ) and ALA. The study provides the most
current information available on public library technology and funding. 

 

 

Don Wood

Program Officer

Chapter Relations Office

American Libraries Association

50 East Huron Street

Chicago, IL 60611

dwood at ala.org

1-800-545-2433, ext. 2429

312-280-2429

312-280-4392 (fax)

Learn More about Chapters <http://cro.ala.org/chapters/> 

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<http://www.facebook.com/ILoveLibraries> 

Follow CRO on Twitter <http://twitter.com/ALA_CRO> 

Learn about ALA Connect <http://connect.ala.org/node/70772> 

 

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