Libraries and the Digital Divide

(Reynolds)

Bridging the gap in the digital divide is an essential task that libraries undertake. Library users ranging from ages 0-80+ years old and socio-economic ranges that span just as wide, libraries must make it an objective to serve all. How do they do that, a lot of work that’s how. Libraries provide computer access, wireless internet access, laptops, and some libraries even have tablets to borrow.  In some libraries, users check out mobile hotspots because they do not have internet access at home (Lee King).

Individuals with disabilities face challenges in social, economic, and educational settings and as “Baby Boomers” age they become susceptible to diseases that affect eyesight, joints, and cognitive functions, and numbers in this group are predicted to increase 100% by 2030 (Mates).  Libraries are digitally inclusive places, with access to digital resources, support, and skills providing users with the latest technologies at no cost. Users who may not have had access previously can benefit from their public library.

By: Estela Perez

Works Cited

Lee King, David. “Chapter 4: The Digital Divide.” Library Technology Reports, vol. 57, no. 2, Feb. 2021, pp. 24–28. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=f6h&AN=148951874&site=ehost-live&scope=site.

Mates, Barbara T., and Char Booth. “Information Power to All Patrons.” Library Technology Reports, vol. 48, no. 7, Oct. 2012, pp. 7–13. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=83242900&site=ehost-live&scope=site.

Reynolds, Dennis. “Digital Divide Part 2” Dennis Reynolds, 29 Jan. 2016, PennState, sites.psu.edu/dennisreynolds/2016/01/29/digital-divide-part-2/.  Accessed 11 May 2024