To me, the phrase “digital divide ” means the separation of people who have
and do not have abilities and access to information by electronic technology. There
are many aspects to the split such as literacy among people is very basic
before they can advance to computer literacy; the affordability and ownership
of digital devices, the provision of internet and broadband connections in any
geographic location, age, gender, occupation, physical and mental status of the
population.
Needless to say, in a poverty-stricken group, survival is a priority need.
Education comes after survival needs are met. In many countries even in industrialized
nations, there are varying gaps between the poor and homeless people and also
the affluent and very affluent ones for reasons beyond the scope of this
discussion. There are countries that are more advanced technologically than
others. The costs of digital devices also can be significantly wide and
prohibitive in some countries. I have heard of the terms "born digital
"and "digital immigrants". I would consider myself born digital
compared to my mom who is a digital immigrant. I grew up in schools where
computer was used as part the daily lessons. My mom had to start from scratch
learning how to use the computer in her 50s. My grandpa does not care a bit
about computer or even cell phone. He gets confused just by looking at them.
Where does the library come in this problem of digital divide? The library
patrons are a mixture of the "have" and "have not". Many
students go to the library to do their homework and research because they don't
have access to a computer at home. The physically handicapped and disabled
groups also go the library. Some may have physical disabilities but are
mentally fit to learn new knowledge and skills. Libraries provide them with assistive/adaptive
devices and technologies. The under served and homeless veterans need employment
but without access to computer. Parents, guardians, and some retired seniors may
want to have computer training while looking after their children in the
library. These are some instances I think where a library can help bridge the
digital divide in the community it serves.
Why is it important to
bridge the digital divide among the people in the community? It is needless to
say that access to digital information worldwide can help improve the lives of
people. Students can progress in learning as they can fulfill school
requirements. It may help change the lives of poor and homeless people if they
are able to find jobs. It can empower the parents, guardians, and retired
seniors as they can connect with neighbors, distant, and even overseas families
and friends and find new ways of entertainment. Finally, by providing equal and
free access to computer and internet, the library is accomplishing its mission
of service to the larger community.
A
link to a Youtube video illustrating digital divide:
Bride the Digital Divide
References:
"Bridge the Digital
Divide." YouTube. YouTube, 08 Sept. 2011. Web. 16 Apr. 2014.
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1akcDMfexDE>.
Marsch, Jennifer K.
"UIowa Wiki." Web log post. Bridging the Digital Divide in
Education. Education Technology Center, 27 Apr. 2011. Web. 17 Apr. 2014.
<https://wiki.uiowa.edu/display/edtech/Bridging+the+Digital+Divide+in+Education>.
I do believe the library plays a key part in the community for those of us that cannot afford computers in their homes. Seeing as how I'm in that same percentile, I make it a point to be in the library to get my work done. It also gives me direct contact with my professor if I need help.
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