Library staff are encouraged to use the briefing papers, found in the links below, as educational tools with community stakeholders, including elected officials, funders and program partners, as needed to raise awareness of the specific – and sometimes unique – concerns of libraries around technology deployment.
Job-Seeking in US Public Libraries
http://www.ala.org/ala/aboutala/offices/wo/woissues/washfunding/fedfund/IssuesBrief-Jobs.pdf
Using data from the Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study, this document discusses the range of library resources available to job seekers and the challenges to maintaining these services.
Advocating in a Tough Economy Toolkit
http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/advocacy/advocacyuniversity/toolkit/index.cfm
Get tips, tools and messages that work.
Supporting Learners in Public Libraries
http://www.ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pressreleases2009/march2009/orsissuesbrief.cfm
The public library is a key agency in supporting the educational and learning needs of every person in the community. Libraries offer vital resources for early literacy development, homework help, homeschool families, continuing education and lifelong avocations.
"Supporting Learners in U.S. Public Libraries" outlines many of the technology resources public libraries provide learners of all ages, challenges libraries face in meeting growing demand, and describes how sustained funding enables public libraries to offer increased assistance and services to their communities.
Internet Connectivity in U.S. Public Libraries
http://www.ala.org/ala/research/initiatives/plftas/2008_2009/librariesconnectcommunities3.pdf
Today’s public libraries are thriving technology hubs that millions rely on for Internet access. In addition to providing free access to computers and the Internet, the majority of public libraries offer Wi-fi access, digital reference and downloadable media. As online services and programs become more sophisticated, the need for higher Internet access speeds for libraries grows.
"Internet Connectivity in U.S. Public Libraries" describes the varied opportunities and obstacles facing libraries in acquiring and providing high-speed Internet access in rural, suburban and urban libraries.
Additional briefing reports will be published at:
The Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study gathers a wide range of data related to computer and Internet access in U.S. public libraries – including the number of computers, barriers to high-speed Internet access, Internet services and trainings available, and funding for technology.
www.ala.org/ala/research/initiatives/plftas/issuesbriefs/index.cfm
Also see:
ALA Toolkit for Winning Support for Your Library - A suite of resources featuring tips and tools for ongoing library advocacy work and campaigns.
