HI, I live in So OR and from what I heard last time we closed our public library, we were the first library in the US that was public that was ever closed. I want to gather some statistics to show how ridiculous it is to close our library. What a city !!! Ha. So, please not opinions, but I need statistics, any search ideas ?
Archive for January, 2010
How Do I Find Statistics On Public Library Closures ?
Thursday, January 21st, 2010Gates Foundation Grants Internet Access Assistance to Us Public Libraries
Wednesday, January 13th, 2010Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is continuously providing assistance to public libraries across the United States through Opportunity Online program. The philanthropic organization’s grants cover installation and improvement of Internet access to help provide high-quality, fast, and free online connection to specific computer workstations and centers in public libraries, which in turn are used by many people.
Opportunity Online is granting assistance in the form of funding, technical support, and associated training for at least two years per public library. This program is primarily focused on assisting public libraries that are in turn serving bigger populations. Public libraries that are almost vulnerable to having obsolete technology are prioritized. Eligible libraries should at the same time be able to secure funding commitments before receiving any grant from the program. This is to make sure there is appropriate community support for maintenance of computer upgrades.
It is estimated that about 40% of the US population are still not enjoying Internet access at their homes. Thus, public libraries are serving and facilitating critical link between users and technology, especially to many who are not able to afford getting Internet access services on their own. It is not surprising that currently, millions of Americans are using Internet through public libraries in different purposes like earning long-distance education degrees, starting and advancing small businesses, finding critical information on jobs, learning better English, getting e-government services and information, and many more.
Most public libraries are applying for potential grants from Opportunity Online because Internet access has really become among the most essential services that are required by people. Library administrators assert that their facilities must be able to maintain technology tools to help more people access and use information and services offered online.
However, there are still many concerns and requirements that many public libraries should address as they start and keep facilitating Internet access to numerous users. First, the average 256 KBPS connection to Internet network has to be ramped up. At present, most libraries that are capable to connect online are not able to support bandwidth traffic activities like MP3 downloading (for sound and video files), video-streaming, and other forms of interactive communication.
Opportunity Online could commit to investing in public libraries’ connectivity, training, research, and even advocacy. The program could not in any way fully takeover or fund what public libraries need. That is why aside from Opportunity Online grants, libraries should also secure other support from local governments and non-government organizations in their communities. The program is set to only jumpstart the initiative. In the long run, public libraries are expected to be able to support their online services on their own.
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, based in Seattle, is working to help many people lead productive, comfortable, and healthy lives. The organization is guided accordingly by the belief that every single life has real and equal value. Within developing countries, the foundation is focused on helping people improve their health and providing opportunities for them to stay out of hunger and burden from possible extreme poverty. In the US, the foundation seeks to make sure all people get the ability to seize opportunities to succeed. That is why providing Internet access is one of the priority projects of the organization.
NYC – Midtown: Bryant Park and New York Public Library
Friday, January 8th, 2010
Image taken on 2003-04-28 08:28:03 by wallyg.
Step Into History & Literature at the Boston Public Library
Monday, January 4th, 2010A monumental building stands upon Boylston Street, standing tall in its magnificence and telling century old tales of Boston. This very building is none other than the Boston Public Library. Holding secrets of history, culture and customs, it stands tall since the day it has made its home there.
The Great and General Court of Massachusetts founded the Boston Public Library and was the first ever-free library in the United States of America. Founded in 1848, this historical public library is a gift to community, offering people the love for knowledge and education. Initially held in an old schoolhouse on Mason Street, it was later relocated to the building that stands tall today on Boylston Street. An architectural marvel created by architect Charles Follen McKim, it was also known to some as “The Palace for the People”.
Since its inception, the Boston Public Library, or BPL as it is commonly referred to, has expanded into branch libraries. The McKim building as well as the Johnson building designed by Phillip Johnson forms the BPL. These two buildings form the headquarters form the many branches of the library, which spans across Boston city.
Apart from the vast collection of books and research material, the library also boasts the possession of many valued objects, such as rare books and manuscripts, antique maps, musical scores and prints. Some of those objects include several early edition folios of William Shakespeare, some musical scores by Mozart and John Adams’s personal library.
The Boston Public Library is not just a structure holding secrets of knowledge, but also it holds its own secret treasures, such as Bates Hall. The Bates Hall is known as one of the most important rooms in the world architecturally. The hall which is named in honor of Joshua Bates, a merchant banker from London who was born in Massachusetts, is a half domed beauty with oak and limestone furniture and fittings. The décor includes the busts of famed Bostonians and revered authors.
The Boston Public Library holds many galleries such as the Chavannes Gallery, The Abbey Room and the Sergeant Gallery. The library also allows for library tours around this architectural marvel.
Visit the Boston Public Library and be awed by the sheer beauty and grandiosity of the structure and everything it possesses while staying at the Taj Boston, a five star hotel located close to the library. This Boston luxury hotel offers guests lavish accommodation coupled with quality services and warm hospitality.