School, Public Libraries Support Tech, Says Survey

To Texans, public and school libraries are crucial to their communities—especially for the technology they provide, according to a survey sponsored by the Texas Library Association (TLA). Access to computers as well as the Web proved important to 92 percent of the 1,201 people surveyed last fall about public libraries, with 97 percent agreeing that they also create educational opportunities for users. School libraries also fared well in public opinion with 99 percent saying they’re essential to the learning process, and 94 percent saying that school librarians are critical as well.

“I believe strongly that libraries are vital to the success of our schools and communities,” says Sen. Judith Zaffirini, (D-Laredo), in a statement. “They not only provide innovative learning tools for children to develop reading and research skills, but also offer the latest technology and educational resources to the communities they serve.” Visit TLA’s Web site for full details of the study.