This new 22 page report by Nancy Kranich, KS Consultants, Past President of the American Library Association, formerly associate dean of libraries at New York University, discusses the Universal Service provisions of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and the role of libraries in providing internet access to the public.
- Libraries as Universal Service Providers, by Nancy Kranich, Universal Service Project, Benton Foundation, December 1, 2006 [abstract]. Full text at http://www.benton.org/benton_files/kranich.doc
She says that libraries are now the number one point of access for the public outside the home, school, and work, leveling the playing field for those left behind in the digital age. But universal service programs need increased funding, better coordination, policy changes, and service improvements if every American is to have the opportunity to participate in the 21st century information society.
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