TeleRead and neighborhood libraries
One of the main precepts of TeleRead is that a national digital library system should strengthen rather than replace local libraries–should allow them to set up links and search engines that help local people. Neighborhood libraries also are invaluable as meeting places and potentially as sources of training and other tech-related help.
Now comes an article in the Christian Science Monitor telling how the Web has actually been a boon for local libraries–since people want a human touch in coping with the masses of information available through the Net. More money is actually going for local library construction: “Last year, $686 million was spent on library construction – the second-highest dollar total ever spent, and a 15 percent increase over a decade ago, American Library Association data shows. Aside from the construction of 80 new libraries, 132 existing ones underwent renovations: creating new space, wiring old buildings for high-speed Internet access, and buying computers.”
Still, it isn’t as if the typical library is swimming in cash. A well-stocked national digital library system would be an excellent way to stretch resources. The other fact to consider is that as hardware improves and broadband connections become standard, then more people will be using technological resources at home.
(Via Library Stuff.)
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