Turning libraries into internet cafes
Where do you go for free internet access? And no, piggybacking off your neighbor’s unsecured Wi-Fi is not the answer I’m looking for.
In these hard economic times, it’s no surprise that libraries are suddenly becoming more "in-demand" than ever – not only because they offer you free books, but because most public libraries also have free internet access. However, most libraries appear to be using dated technology and simply do not have the funds for upgrades, not to mention more equipment to alleviate time limits on internet use.
The Gates Foundation is coming to the rescue, at least, for a few states. According to this post over at Ars Technica, the charity is going to pump some money into a few states to get internet access updated and more widely available:
To help struggling libraries get on their 21st century feet, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation today announced a grant program of $6.9 million that will go toward launching a pilot broadband initiative in a handful of US states.
The article continues:
The Gates Foundation’s grant comes at a crucial time when libraries across the US are reporting spikes in patron traffic due to the economic crisis. Students, the unemployed, and those without home Internet access are increasingly making use of the fact that local libraries double as free Internet cafes.
This is definitely a large step in the right direction. Having convenient, public access to free internet has long been the "utopian ideal" for Wi-Fi and broadband. The internet has long been hailed as leveling the playing field for the rest of us – but the field can only be leveled if everyone has equal access to the internet.
What’s the literary angle to this story?
I debated writing this post because it lacks a firm "literary angle". However, this story is about libraries (free books anyone?) and spreading technology to enhance those libraries. The "angle" is that free internet access will allow people, who may not have internet at their home for whatever reason, a chance to access the same digital content (i.e. ebooks!) as the rest of us. I hope I’m not stretching this too far.
Then there’s the obvious – you draw people into the library with free internet, and they might just end up reading a few books as well. At least, that’s my theory!
Do you utilize your public library? If so, for what? I’ll be honest, I hardly ever go to my library because I live in an unincorporated part of town, so I actually have to pay for a library card!
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