Fringe Benefits Eyeballed

Is free Internet Access in Public Libraries Good for People?

Everyone say: "Yes". But up till now the burning question, ok, maybe its just smoldering, will be answered by The federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) will work with the University of Washington Information School (iSchool) on a national study of the social, economic, personal, and professional value of such access.

Up until now there has been no in depth study to discover the long term impact of such offerings on the house. Questions like how will this benefit communities, their families and individuals will be addressed along with negative implications. It is hoped that such research will be sound evidence of a public need, and that funding it is a priority. The intention is to draw the public into an awareness of funding needs. In other words, this isn't cheap, making technology and information exchange at this level open to all.

The iSchool will partner with the Urban Institute, a nonpartisan economic and social policy research organization. The $1 million project is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

This will be an ongoing project through 2009.

Any thoughts?

http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6523424.html