Libraries work to close the digital divide

Public libraries are increasing their role in community broadband adoption, according to a recent National Digital Alliance Inclusion report. Libraries in Kansas City, for example, are lending tablets and hotspot devices to encourage digital literacy training; opening computer labs that focus on workforce development, personal finance, and digital life skills; and working closely with local groups to close the digital divide in their community.

“Libraries need to make digital inclusion a priority. There are a lot of digital divide issues, including access, devices, and content,” said Deputy Directory of Kansas City Public Library Cheptoo Kositany-Bucker. “Demand for public access shows there is a need for home access. What are our priorities? We talk of libraries moving to [the] digital age but are we bringing our communities along?”

Read the entire report here.

Libraries' Increasing Role in Broadband Adoption (Benton Foundation, Jan. 11, 2016)