State Librarian’s Quarterly Webcast
Susan Hildreth
August 3, 2005
Noon – 1pm
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Gates Foundation 2005 Survey
98.9% of public libraries offer free Internet access
Public libraries provide the only Internet access for the nation’s poorest areas
Nine out of 10 public libraries do not have enough terminals to meet demand
No more capacity due to funding or physical or network limitations
“Staying Connected” Grant Funds To Include Training
Infopeople will provide training to help libraries with selection, procurement and long-term support for replacement public access computers
Training will include webcasts and workshops
Connectivity - Key to Convenient and Effective Access to the Internet
72 % of urban libraries have high-speed connections 20% of them offer wireless connections
Only 34% of rural libraries have high-speed connections - challenge for states with extensive rural areas
66% of California public libraries have high speed connections as defined by the Gates Survey (769 kbps)
Maintaining Quality Technology Services is a Challenge for Libraries
70% of public libraries do not have a plan to upgrade hardware
77% do not have a plan to upgrade software
96% do not have a plan to upgrade their connection speed
Gates Foundation Public Access Computer Hardware Upgrade Grant Program 1st priority - Replacement of any remaining
original computers
2nd priority - Replacement of computers that are newer than the original computers, but still need replacement
3rd priority - Libraries eligible for the original grant that did not to participate will be able to do so
4th priority - Equipment used for training labs eligible for replacement.
Funds Can Be Used For:
Software for the public access computers
Support services such as extended warranties and technical support services
Installation and configuration to help ensure long term sustainability
Funds Cannot Be Used For:
Staff computers
Peripherals such as switches, firewalls, or printers
Application Information Will Be Forthcoming
Libraries serving over 300,000 apply directly to Gates Foundation
Other libraries use online form developed by Gates Foundation to report status of public access computer. California State Library will use reports to determine state project plan to submit to Gates Foundation
Everyone is on the Internet!
84% of those 18-29 76% of those 30-49 64% of those 50-64
67% of adults use the Internet
What Are They Doing?
91% send email 84% use search engines to find
information 80% search the Internet to
answer a specific question People get their information from
the Internet.
Libraries need to be there!
Future of Resource-Sharing and Cooperative Services in California
Reference service focus groups held in July
Visioning of cooperative services – To be held in late November/early December
Statewide convocation on 21st century library services – 2006
Wrap-Up and Q&A
Susan will now respond to questions you’ve submitted via Chat.
Please fill out the survey that is displayed during the Q&A.
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