The Public Library Association (PLA) is calling on public libraries nationwide to participate in the 2023 Public Library Technology Survey. This annual survey is designed to gather essential data on resources, infrastructure, training, staffing, and funding related to technology in public libraries. The survey offers insights into how libraries serve as hubs of knowledge and innovation in their communities while evolving to meet the changing needs of patrons.
Open for responses until December 16, 2023, the survey builds on the success of its inaugural administration in 2020. The findings from the 2020 Technology Survey highlighted the crucial role that libraries of all sizes play in bridging digital divides across the nation.
Key findings from the 2020 Technology Survey included: Internet Hotspots: Approximately 32.6% of public libraries offered internet hotspots for checkout, addressing patrons' digital connectivity needs; Bandwidth Challenges: Less than half of public libraries (43.7%) had increased their bandwidth in the two years leading up to the survey. Some libraries (34.6%) reported an inability to improve bandwidth due to the unavailability of faster speeds; Digital Literacy: Over 88% of all public libraries offered some form of digital literacy programming, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing patrons' digital skills; Staff: About a third (36.7%) of public libraries had dedicated staff members responsible for digital literacy and technology programs and training; and Streaming Public Programs: Nearly half of public libraries (48.7%) provided streaming public programs over the previous 12 months.
These findings, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, were instrumental in advocating for relief and recovery funding for libraries at the federal level. Even when their physical buildings were temporarily closed, libraries led the way in extending technology resources and services to patrons.
The 2023 Technology Survey seeks to build upon these insights and offer an updated snapshot of the state of technology in public libraries. Participating in the survey is straightforward and open to all U.S. public libraries. Libraries can log in to their free Benchmark accounts. Assistance in accessing Benchmark accounts is available by contacting plabenchmark@ala.org. Additional survey details are provided on the PLA website, where interested libraries can also register for a free information session on October 12 to learn more about the survey.
The PLA plans to publish a freely available report on the 2023 findings within a year. Reports on previous annual survey results can be found on their website. By participating in the survey, libraries can contribute to strengthening the vital role of public libraries in bridging the digital divide and advancing technology services to meet patrons' changing needs.
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