Libraries, telecentres and cybercafés: An international study of public access information venues

Ricardo Gomez; Rucha Ambikar; Chris Coward

doi:10.1108/14678040910949675

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Performance Measurement and Metrics

ISSN: 1467-8047

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Subject Area: Library and Information Studies

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Libraries, telecentres and cybercafés: An international study of public access information venues

Document Information:
Title:	Libraries, telecentres and cybercafés: An international study of public access information venues
Author(s):	Ricardo Gomez, (Information School, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA), Rucha Ambikar, (Information School, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA), Chris Coward, (Information School, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA)
Citation:	Ricardo Gomez, Rucha Ambikar, Chris Coward, (2009) "Libraries, telecentres and cybercafés: An international study of public access information venues", Performance Measurement and Metrics, Vol. 10 Iss: 1, pp.33 - 48
Keywords:	Communication technologies, Information services, Internet
Article type:	Research paper
DOI:	10.1108/14678040910949675 (Permanent URL)
Publisher:	Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Acknowledgements:	An earlier version of this paper was presented at the IFLA Conference 2008: International Federation of Library Associations, Quebec, Canada, August 2008.
Abstract:	Purpose – This paper aims to offer early insight into ongoing research comparing public access venues such as libraries, cybercafés and telecentres in 25 countries around the world. Design/methodology/approach – The authors studied information needs and uses of information and communication technologies (ICT) in these public access venues, with a particular focus on underserved populations. Findings – Understanding trends, differences and similarities across venues and across countries offers an emerging map that will help researchers and policymakers conduct future research and make better decisions to strengthen public access to information through ICT. Originality/value – The research was done in partnership with local research teams in 25 countries around the world, and studied public libraries, telecentres and cybercafés side by side, while most studies in the past have looked at them independently of one another.