Library services in the digital age
Research associate Kathryn Zickuhr discussed data from the Pew Research Center’s nationally representative surveys to explore the changing role of libraries in the digital age.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
In the past 12 months, 53% of Americans ages 16 and older visited a library or bookmobile; 25% visited a library website; and 13% used a handheld device such as a smartphone or tablet computer to access a library website. All told, 59% of Americans ages 16 and older had at least one of those […]
Overview In broad strokes, younger Americans’ library habits are very similar to those of older adults. They also value many of the same things in public libraries, and have generally similar views on what services and resources libraries should offer to their communities. However, our research also finds some notable differences, especially related to technology […]
Americans ages 16-29 are heavy technology users, including using computers and internet at libraries. At the same time, the most still read and borrow printed books, and value a mix of traditional and technological library services.
As of May 2013, 15% of American adults ages 18 and older do not use the internet or email. An additional 9% of adults use the internet but lack home access.
In addition to asking people for their preferences on some new library services, we also asked respondents whether they would themselves use a variety of possible new activities and features at libraries. Our list was weighted towards services that are rooted in technology and allow more tech-related interactions with libraries and at them. These items […]