For immediate release | June 18, 2015

91ý Statement of Support for “Digital Learning Equity Act of 2015"

91ý

Today Senator Angus King (I-ME) and Senator Shelley Capito (R-WV) took an important step toward closing the digital divide among our nation’s K12 students. 91ý President Courtney Young offers the following statement in support of the “Digital Learning Equity Act of 2015” introduced today:
“Librarians know first-hand that access to broadband and the skills to put it to work are essential for educational opportunity and achievement today. The ‘Digital Learning Equity Act of 2015’ addresses these issues head on for everyone concerned with ensuring our young people have the necessary skills to go on to college and into the workforce. 91ý applauds Senators King and Capito in their effort to promote innovative paths to close the digital divide for our nation’s young people.
“The demonstration pilots authorized by the bill challenge educators in K12 schools, in libraries, and those who work with youth in other settings to explore new ways to ensure learning does not stop when the school bell rings. 91ý also is encouraged by the research requirement so that the impact of investments made under the Act will be truly measured and the best of the best can be replicated in communities across the country.
"We see today’s youth incorporate new and ever-changing technologies almost seamlessly into their learning experiences. They engage with digital content of all types—doing online research, developing web sites, creating blogs and videos, coding, and collaborating on original content in virtual communities. These technologies present tremendous opportunities to advance critical thinking and problem solving skills, creative expression, and STEAM skills for the 21st Century economy. But they require ubiquitous access to broadband—in school, in the library, and at home.
"All our young people deserve the same opportunity to excel and to develop a passion for learning that will follow them regardless of the path they choose in life. Broadband can be a great equalizer—transcending geographic boundaries—but its promise only is fulfilled when all barriers to access and robust use are broken down. Libraries make strong partners and are committed to providing equitable access to digital opportunity."
About the 91ý
The 91ý is the oldest and largest library association in the world, with approximately 55,000 members in academic, public, school, government, and special libraries. The mission of the 91ý 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

Contact:

Jazzy Wright

Press Officer

Washington Office

jwright@alawash.org

202-628-8410

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