Internet access key to libraries resurgence

Five years ago, experts thought that the growth of the Internet would make libraries obsolete. However, instead of killing off libraries, the Internet has led to larger circulations and more regular patrons at many public libraries. According to a Gannett News Service analysis of local library systems, attendance at libraries has increased 10 percent and circulation has increased nine percent in a five year time period from Februrary 2001 to June 2005.

The growth of public libraries can be attributed largely to the initiative of most libraries to provide free high-speed Internet for their patrons. According to the Gannett study, there were 175,000 computers at public libraries offering free Internet access in 2006 -- an increase of 39 percent from 2001. Only about a third of households with collective incomes under the poverty threshold have Internet access, leaving millions of households without in-home access.

Geri Feucht, a library director from Horicon, WI, described the use of the Internet at her library:

"A lot of people come in every day to use the Internet. We have regulars, people who don't own computers. We do see ourselves as the center of the community and believe we are necessary for quality of life."

Much of the credit for the spread of Internet availability at public libraries can be given to the federal E-Rate program, which provides discounts to schools and libraries for Internet connectivity. In addition, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has invested $325 million in its U.S. Libraries initiative.

In Internet age, libraries plug in (FDL Reporter)

Library Systems Database (Gannett News Service)

Ensuring the Internet Is a Resource for All (Gates Foundation)