Do E-books Bridge the Digital Divide?

Nicole J. Hoback

Reference:

Polanka, S. (2012). Do E-books Bridge the Digital Divide? In No Shelf Required 2: Use and Management of Electronic Books (pp. 17-34). Chicago, IL: ALA Editions

Summary:

In chapter two, of No Shelf Required 2: Use and Management of Electronic Books, readers are introduced to the technology divide that many Americans face on a daily basis. Since the Great Recession of 2007 more families have been relying on their public libraries to have access to the Internet and computers. In “Do E-books Bridge the Digital Divide?,” the author explains that while many across the United States have a computer, the low to moderate income households cannot afford high speed Internet, in many cases, while some still rely on dial up and look to the library for high-speed access. The author proposes that social workers and librarians should be working closely together to help those patrons most in need. Stating that, “both librarians and social workers are often put in the position of facing budget cuts and doing more with less” (pp. 30). I felt that this quote demonstrated the strength of not only librarians, but of libraries as an institution. Academic libraries were also discussed, in how they are the leader in the number of eBook readers purchased, while public libraries were playing catch-up, generally due to budget. Overall the positive side to this chapter was that although many cannot afford to stay current with technology, creating exclusion, as eReaders become more popular, price drops will occur allowing more of the population to be able to afford them. With more libraries gaining access to these resources this will allow patrons to feel included.

Evaluation:

Although slightly depressing to read, due to how many across the United States are excluded from technology, the chapter was insightful and important to understand when analyzing technologies growth. To understand how technology is affecting children and adults, it is also equally important to know that not everyone has the luxury of experiencing change and growth in education. The positives of this chapter were that more libraries are gaining access to these materials allowing for less exclusion.