Public Libraries Building Digital Inclusive Communities: Data and Findings from the 2013 Digital Inclusion Survey

Abstract

This article presents key data, findings, and analysis from the 2013 Digital Inclusion Survey, which is a national study of the ways in which public libraries promote digital inclusion in their communities. Survey questions addressed the provision of various public access technologies and infrastructure, educational efforts and training offerings related to technology use, and assistance of patrons with specific areas that are of interest to the community, such as employment, civic engagement, and government services. Survey results demonstrate the myriad ways in which public libraries prioritize their roles in promoting digital inclusion and view digital inclusion efforts as central to their missions to serve their communities. This article explores the successes and challenges that public libraries encounter in their efforts to build digitally inclusive communities.