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| Robert Cottingham |
By Bryan
The digital divide describes inequalities that have arisen in the access to and knowledge of evolving information technologies. There are a host of factors that can be examined to theorize how and why this happens. Libraries are engaged in the attempt to resolve this problem by providing users access to current technologies. This access is universal and there are no qualifying factors that users must meet; unfettered and open access to information is seen as the remedy that libraries can provide. Technologies available in libraries do depend on capital being available to fund the purchases, but it is always in a libraries mission to stay as current as possible. It is especially important that there is training available within the library to help familiarize users with technological resources. A good example of this in action is the Job Shop at the Louisville Free Public Library. Patrons are not only given access to modern job application resources, they are also trained in to utilize then.The following are resources to learn more about the digital divide and the role libraries play.
McClure, C. (2011, December 13.) A "new" digital divide? Retrieved from http://www.ors.ala.org/libconnect/2011/12/13/a-new-digital-divide/
The digital divide is an interesting challenge for librarians today as it pits the need to stay current against the need to remain accessible to patrons. Many librarians have embraced Web 2.0 tools like online social networking and media generating sites in an attempt to meet the users “where they are,” but what about the users that do not have access to the equipment or technology to follow the library onto the Web 2.0 world?
ReplyDeleteIn Dr. Naidoo’s interview with Dr. Joe Miller, Dr. Miller stresses that the term “digital divide” can mean different things in different contexts, but I like his simple definition of the information “haves” and “have nots.” The heart of the digital divide matter boils down to who has access to information. In the past, access to information meant that one of the problems librarians wrestled with was geographic access to physical library buildings. Now, access to information means that librarians have to address the issues of access to equipment, technology, and training to use the technology.
There is a danger of wasted time and resources for librarians who jump wholeheartedly into Web 2.0 tools without considering the consequences for the library and the digital divide. McDermott (2007) suggests that it is essential for librarians to be prepared to devote energy to learning new skills and passing those skills onto users before the advantages of Web 2.0 can be realized. Access to information for all patrons should remain a focus for librarians, particularly during times of major innovation and change.
McDermott, I. E. (2007). All a-twitter about Web 2.0: What does it offer libraries? Searcher, 15(9), 34-39.
Miller, J. Interview with J. Naidoo. Accessed May 24, 2012.