Another reason to support your public library, think OK not IL

We’re finding this is true in Oklahoma as well as Illinois, as people lose jobs and the ability to pay for internet services they turn to the public libraries to job hunt and fill out applications.

http://www.suntimes.com/business/2121467,recession-public-library-internet-032510.article

Recession driving Chicagoans to library — for free Internet

The recession and high unemployment are driving Chicagoans to the public library for free Internet access, with 47 percent of those responding to a survey saying they looked for employment while using library access.

The survey being released today, “Opportunity for All: How the American Public Benefits from Internet Access at U.S. Libraries,” included responses from 627 Chicago library-Internet users.

Of the 47 percent who used the Web for employment purposes, 37 percent searched for a job.

The remainder worked on their resumes, received skills training, and researched job-related information.

Respondents could select more than one answer.

The next highest use of library Internet resources in Chicago was for education, with 43 percent citing this use. Nearly three-quarters, or 73 percent, of 14- to 18-year olds who responded did their homework.

One-third of the library Web users accessed e-government services, such as applying for permits and licenses and applying for government programs and services.

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