One year ago, the Pew Research Center began studying how the role of public libraries, as well as the needs and expectations of their patrons and communities, are changing in the digital age. Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, grounded by a Library Advisory Group, and conducted by the Pew Internet & American Life Project, the first set of reports focus on the rise of e-reading and e-books at libraries. Among the findings: 12% of e-book readers have borrowed an e-book from a library; 58% of library card holders are unsure if their library offers e-books; and a majority of e-book borrowers were unable to borrow an e-book they were seeking at their library.
At the Library 2.012 worldwide virtual conference, Pew Internet Research Analyst Kathryn Zickuhr and ALA Program Director Larra Clark will discuss key findings from these reports—including a brand new analysis focused on younger Americans’ reading preferences and library use habits. The session also will explore immediate practical implications for U.S. public libraries.
