March 17-April 12, 2015 – Libraries and Technology Use

This survey contains questions about American adults’ relationship with public libraries as well as their use of various technological devices.

Smartphone and tablet ownership continues to rise, while the adoption of some digital devices has slowed and even declined in recent years.

Americans believe libraries are important community institutions and profess interest in libraries offering a range of new program possibilities. Yet, even as the public expresses interest in additional library services, there are signs that the share of Americans visiting libraries has edged downward over the past three years.

36% of adult smartphone owners use messaging apps, while 17% use apps that automatically delete sent messages. These types of apps are adding to an already complex terrain of digital and social communication. Meanwhile, social media platforms continue to attract dedicated users.