Patron Use of Computers in Public Libraries [microform]
- Bib ID:
- 5469499
- Format:
- Book and Microform
- Author:
- Office of Educational Research and Improvement (ED), Washington, DC
- Online Version:
- https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED272181
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- Description:
-
- [Washington, D.C.] : Distributed by ERIC Clearinghouse, 1986
- 18 p.
- Summary:
-
A survey was conducted to determine the extent to which public libraries have made computer hardware and software available to their patrons. In December 1984, questionnaires were distributed to a stratified national probability sample of 900 public library systems. Results, based on a response rate of 99%, indicate that: (1) 42% of the systems serving large populations (100,000 or more) had computers for patron use, compared with 26% for medium-sized populations (10,000-100,000), and 13% for small populations (fewer than 10,000); (2) an estimated 3,300 computers were available for use in the nation's libraries; three-fourths were situated inside the library while one-fourth could be checked out for loan; (3) about half of all computers were purchased primarily with state or local funds, and one-third were obtained through gifts; (4) patrons used computers inside public libraries for a total of 52,000 hours a week, or about 23 hours per computer per week; (5) 71% of the patrons using computers inside libraries were under 18 years old, but only 30% of outside users were; (6) the typical loan period allowed for computers taken outside the library was one week (67% of systems); (7) 9 out of 10 library systems that provided computers also had computer software for use inside or outside the library; and (8) about one-half of the library systems with computers offered training or orientation sessions. Libraries also indicated a high priority for initiating or increasing hardware and software availability and the number of staff trained to assist patrons. Ten data tables and a copy of the questionnaire are provided. (JB)
- Notes:
-
- ERIC Note: Appendices contain small print.
- May also be available online. Address as at 14/8/18: https://eric.ed.gov/
- Reproduction:
- Microfiche. [Washington D.C.]: ERIC Clearinghouse microfiches : positive.
- Subject:
- Genre/Form:
- Other authors/contributors:
- Office of Educational Research and Improvement (ED), Washington, DC
- Available From:
- ERIC
- Copyright:
-
In Copyright
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- Reason for copyright status:
- Until 2056 [Created/Published Date + 70 Years]
Copyright status was determined using the following information:
- Material type:
- Literary Dramatic Musical
- Published status:
- Published
- Publication date:
- 1986
Copyright status may not be correct if data in the record is incomplete or inaccurate. Other access conditions may also apply. For more information please see: Copyright in library collections.
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