Study Says Libraries are Crucial Technology Hubs - Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

CHICAGO -- With national unemployment topping 9 percent and many Americans seeking online information and new technology skills that can help keep them and their families afloat in hard times, U.S. public libraries are first responders in a time of economic uncertainty.

“Libraries Connect Communities 3: Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study 2008-2009,” a new report released today by the American Library Association (ALA), says libraries are serving as crucial technology hubs for people in need of free Web access, computer training, and assistance finding and using E-Government and job resources.

To read the full press release, visit the American Library Association web site.