Public library connectivity and rural broadband in the United States: A literature review

In the United States, public technology funding is distributed differently across state lines. This impacts service and access to information particularly as it pertains to critical broadband access. Funding and service trends have changed, especially as it relates to public libraries, with some modifications working to their advantage and some to their detriment. As information is increasingly moving online, libraries are struggling to opt into an infrastructure that will best meet the needs of their users. This is especially true in rural areas that have a very small tax base, and yet need to provide access to e-government and other key information so that their communities can be a part of a democratic society. The National Broadband Plan and the Universal Service Fund are both politically controversial measures to try to address these needs, and are used as an illustration of how these programs can impact access in the states. The author will also explore demographics, grant programs and private telecommunication interests in rural areas, where the only access point to online information may be at the local library.