State Librarian’s Quarterly Webcast

Susan Hildreth

August 3, 2005

Noon – 1pm

To Ask Questions, Use “Chat”

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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.