Derek's Blog

Very interesting report just out from Pew Internet:

There are several major findings in this report. One is this: For help with a variety of common problems, more people turn to the internet than consult experts or family members to provide information and resources.

Another key insight is that members of Gen Y are the leading users of libraries for help solving problems and in more general patronage.

In a national phone survey, respondents were asked whether they had encountered 10 possible problems in the previous two years, all of which had a potential connection to the government or government-provided information. Those who had dealt with the problems were asked where they went for help and the internet topped the list:

• 58% of those who had recently experienced one of those problems said they used the internet (at home, work, a public library or some other place) to get help.


• 53% said they turned to professionals such as doctors, lawyers or financial experts.


• 45% said they sought out friends and family members for advice and help.


• 36% said they consulted newspapers and magazines.


• 34% said they directly contacted a government office or agency.


• 16% said they consulted television and radio.


• 13% said they went to the public library.

The survey results challenge the assumption that libraries are losing relevance in the internet age. Libraries drew visits by more than half of Americans (53%) in the past year for all kinds of purposes, not just the problems mentioned in this survey. And it was the young adults in tech-loving Generation Y (age 18-30) who led the pack. Compared to their elders, Gen Y members were the most likely to use libraries for problem-solving information and in general patronage for any purpose.

Furthermore, it is young adults who are the most likely to say they will use libraries in the future when they encounter problems: 40% of Gen Y said they would do that, compared with 20% of those above age 30 who say they would go to a library.

Full report can be downloaded here (PDF)