Libraries facing Internet traffic jam

Online resources gain popularity, sparking long lines for public terminals

	More people like this man are surfing the Internet at libraries. Although the online demand has created long lines for the public terminals, the institutions aren't planning on adding more computers.
Tim Boyle / Getty Images file

By Anick Jesdanun

updated 12:23 a.m. ET Sept. 12, 2007

NEW YORK - YouTube, online job applications and homework help sites have boosted demand and contributed to lines for Internet access at the nation’s public libraries, yet a new survey finds the majority have no immediate plans to add computers.

For many library systems, the buildings simply do not have enough room, and their electrical wiring couldn’t deliver the required power. Others are already struggling to stay open, buy books and encourage youths to read.

“We have this entirely brand new service coming to libraries, but the funding has not recognized that,” said Kathleen Reif, director of the St. Mary’s County Library in Leonardtown, Md. “We’re still continuing the books, the outreach, the work with young children and the student support.”

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A new study from the American Library Association, released Wednesday, finds the average number of public Internet terminals largely unchanged since 2002, yet only 1 in 5 libraries say they have enough computers to meet demand at all times.

Besides cost, limitations in space, electrical outlets and cabling are cited as the chief factors preventing libraries from buying more computers. Las Vegas officials, for instance, say they reached capacity a few years ago.

“There are times, especially during those peak usage [hours] after school and as people get out of work, that you may have to wait an hour, an hour and a half,” said Robb Morss, deputy director of the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District.

Pressure to meet demand
Meanwhile, three-quarters of the libraries say they are the only source of free Internet access in their communities, increasing pressure on them to meet demand.

“Libraries are a place where books and periodicals are available, but increasingly public libraries are being asked by their patrons to make these information technologies available,” said Greg Shaw, the director of U.S. program advocacy for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which co-sponsored the study.

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Local and county governments remain the chief sources of funding for libraries, but the study found many libraries having to turn to non-tax revenues such as fines and donations to pay for basic technology-related services.

The St. Mary’s system is likely to leave one full-time position unfilled to free up $40,000 to buy an additional 20 computers, Reif said. That means a 50 percent cut in staff available for outreach programs serving youths.

“You’ve got some basic missions that you’re trying to achieve in a community, trying to reach children at birth and trying to get them ready for school, and you have these computers you need to access the world of information,” Reif said. “It’s a very difficult choice you have, to be constantly balancing those needs.”

CONTINUED : Can wireless reduce the wait?

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