One-third of Americans access broadband Internet at public libraries

Nearly one-third of Americans age 14 or older used a public library computer or wireless network to access high-speed Internet in the past year, according to a report produced by the University of Washington Information School.

The report — commisioned by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation — is the first large-scale study of public library computer and Internet use.

Teenagers (aged 14-17) were the most active public library Internet users.

Nearly 77 million Americans last year used broadband in public libraries:

• 37 percent engaged in research on health issues. Nearly 82 percent of these users sought information on a disease, illness, or medical condition. One-third looked for a doctor; of these, about half made an appointment for care.
• 40 percent of library computer users, or an estimated 30 million people, worked on career development. 75 percent of these users searched for a job, while half filled out an online application or e-mailed a résumé.
• 42 percent received education assistance. An estimated 12 million students used their local library computer to complete homework assignments.
• 60 percent of public library Internet users engaged with others, through government, community, and civic organizations websites.

The survey also found that a majority of library users surveyed said they subscribe to an Internet connection at home. They went to the library, however, because the Internet connections were faster and they could ask a librarian for help with technology.

The report comes just two weeks after the release of the FCC's National Broadband Plan. The plan calls for "anchor institutions" to provide access of at least 1 gigabit per second broadband service to every American. If approved by Congress, the proposed expansion would provide money for Internet service in libraries and other institutions.

Today, one-third of public libraries receive broadband Internet through research and education (R&E) networks averaging speeds of ten megabits per second to 1 gigabit per second. The Broadband Plan calls for comparable speeds for all libraries through increased state and federal funding.

Allan Golston, president of the United States Program at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation said the study underscored the importance of library services:

This study highlights what is at risk, particularly for low-income individuals who heavily rely on the public library for their technology, if future public and private investment in public libraries doesn't keep pace with demand.

First-ever National Study: Millions of People Rely on Library Computers for Employment, Health, and Education (University of Washington)

First-ever National Study Press Release (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation)

Gates foundation survey shows libraries key to getting low-income populations online (The Washington Post)

National Broadband Plan (FCC)