A recent national study confirmed what many already knew: free access to computers at the public library is a lifeline for patrons who do not have computer access at home.  What may be surprising is the sheer volume of patrons who rely on this service.  Nearly one-third of Americans aged 14 and older (about 77 million people) have used a public library computer or wifi network to access the Internet in the past year.  The four main areas where library computer usage has made the most impact are: job searching and career needs, health issues, educational needs, and linking patrons to government and civic resources.  CADL provides free computer usage and wifi access to its patrons, supporting this vital trend in our communities.

• In a world where knowledge is power, libraries make everyone more powerful.
• Libraries bring people and ideas together. Think of the library as the living room of your community.
• Libraries are unique. Where else can you have access to nearly anything on CD, DVD, the Web or in print – as well as personal service and assistance in finding it?
• Libraries help bridge the divide between those who have access to information and those who do not. Families making less than $15,000 annually are two to three times more likely to rely on library computers than those earning more than $75,000.
• Nearly 73% of libraries are their communities’ only source of free computer and Internet access- which rises to 82% in rural areas.
• Libraries don’t just offer the hardware, but also offer the expertise of librarians in helping teach people how to use the Internet and find the information they need quickly.  While Google can give you 50,000 responses to your inquiry, your librarian can help you find the one answer you need.
• Libraries are part of the American Dream. They offer free access to all. They bring opportunity to all.
• Libraries and librarians provide free and equal access to information for people of all ages and backgrounds – in schools, on college and university campuses and in communities large and small.
• Libraries are for everyone, everywhere.

-from the ALA Issues & Advocacy page