91��ý

WASHINGTON, D.C.—New research findings show that the digital divide is expanding, affecting far more than the disconnected—a growing percentage of Americans with advanced online access have insufficient levels of digital skills. Join education, government and library experts from 10:00–11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, for “Responding to the Second Digital Divide,” a National Press Club briefing that will explore the ways that governments, schools and communities can better support libraries in bridging the growing skills-based digital divide.

Over the past 20 years, libraries—as welcoming institutions to all segments of society, including students, parents, job-seekers and seniors alike—have increased “digital readiness” by offering innovative technology services to Americans wanting to learn how to type, find online applications and navigate research databases. While school and public libraries have made great strides in teaching digital readiness, what are the best ways that schools, local governments and community organizations can support libraries in bridging the new skills-based digital divide?

Panelists will detail effective tactics to sustain and improve technology training and Internet accessibility in libraries and discuss future directions for public access to information. The press briefing is open to members of the media.

WHAT: Education, government and library experts will explore the growing skills-based digital divide during the National Press Club press briefing “Responding to the Second Digital Divide.”

WHERE: National Press Club, 529 14th Street NW, Zenger Room, Washington, D.C. 20045

WHEN: May 6, 2014, 10:00–11:00a.m.

WHO:

• Clarence Anthony, executive director, National League of Cities
• John B. Horrigan, communications and technology policy consultant, and author of “The Essentials of Connectivity” report
• Richard Reyes-Gavilan, executive director, District of Columbia Public Library, and former chief librarian of the Brooklyn Public Library
• Barbara Stripling, president, 91��ý, and former director of school library programs for the New York City Department of Education

For more information, contact Jazzy Wright, press officer of the 91��ý, at (202) 628-8410, or email jwright@alawash.org.

About the 91��ý

The 91��ý is the oldest and largest library association in the world, with approximately 57,000 members in academic, public, school, government, and special libraries. The mission of the 91��ý is to provide leadership for the development, promotion and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.