Libraries at the crossroads

Summary of Findings American libraries are buffeted by cross currents. Citizens believe that libraries are important community institutions and profess interest in libraries offering a range of new program possibilities. Yet, even as the public expresses interest in additional library services, there are signs that the share of Americans visiting libraries has edged downward over the past three years, although it is too soon to know whether or not this is a trend. A new survey from Pew Research Center brings this complex situation into stark relief. Many Americans say they want public libraries to: support local education; serve special constituents such as veterans, active-duty military personnel and immigrants; help local businesses, job seekers and those upgrading their work skills; embrace new technologies such as 3-D printers and provide services to help patrons learn about high-tech gadgetry. Additionally, two-thirds of Americans (65%) ages 16 and older say that closing their local public library would have a major impact on their community. Low-income Americans, Hispanics and African Americans are more likely than others to say that a library closing would impact their lives and communities

The Internet and Consumer Choice

Presents findings on how heavily consumers rely on the Internet to research and buy music, cell phones, and real estate; whether they post online comments on purchased products; and whether the Internet circumvents traditional means of purchase

Online Shopping

Examines trends in online shopping and the use of online services, comparing survey data by gender, age, race/ethnicity, education, income, and region. Analyzes attitudes toward online shopping and services, with a focus on low-income Internet users

Cities Online: Urban Development and the Internet

Examines how institutions in Austin, Texas; Cleveland, Ohio; Nashville, Tennessee; Portland, Oregon, and Washington, D.C., are adapting to the Internet as an economic development and community building tool

Consumption of Information Goods and Services in the United States

Presents findings from a survey conducted in October 2002. Takes an inventory of the communications gadgets and services that Americans use, and examines the variations within the population of technology users

Online Communities: Networks That Nurture Long-Distance Relationships and Local Ties

Presents findings from a survey conducted between January and February 2001. Examines two kinds of communities -- cyber-based communities, and those who use the Internet to connect with groups based in the community in which they live

How Americans Get in Touch With Government

Presents findings from a survey conducted in July 2003. Looks at the benefits associated with the use of the Internet to access government, in comparison with more traditional means of contact. Provides some implications for policymakers

Holidays Online -- 2002

Presents findings from a survey conducted in November and December 2002. Looks at the use of the Internet for social, spiritual, and commercial activity

Getting Serious Online

Presents findings from a survey conducted in March 2001. Looks at how the Internet is increasingly being used to perform work-related tasks; make financial transactions; and conduct other more functional activities

The Broadband Difference

Presents findings from a survey conducted in January and February 2002. Examines how online Americans' behavior and level of satisfaction with the Internet changes with high speed Internet connections at home