Opportunity for all: how the American public benefits from Internet Access at U.S. libraries

Last April the Chili Public Library participated in a nationwide Internet survey to find out how people use computers and Internet connections in public libraries. Click here U.S. IMPACT web survey to view the results of the survey.

Here is a summary of the survey's most salient points:

· Internet access is now one of the most sought after public library services, and it is used by nearly half of all visitors.

· Libraries offer a technological lifeline to children and families in need.

· People of all ages, incomes, races, and levels of education go to the library for Internet access, whether they have a connection at home or not.

· Technology draws teens to the library.

· Overall, people use library computers to perform both life-changing and routine tasks.

· In extreme conditions, people turned to public library Internet terminals when

they had nowhere else to go.

· Patrons use library computers to help others in their community.

· Public libraries provide access to government agencies that now offer many forms and services online.

· Public libraries are extensions of the nation’s education system.

· Librarians enhance the computing and Internet experience.