Building Connected Communities

Public libraries have established themselves as vital resources in a technology-driven world. Technology is constantly evolving, bringing both opportunities and challenges. What is nice to have one day becomes essential the next. “Meeting the growing technology needs of our communities is an expensive fiscal challenge, but it absolutely has to be a priority,” said Pat Martel, city manager of Daly City, California, and president of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). “The opportunities are what we can envision and the sky’s the limit.”

The pace of change and its immediate impact on daily life and economic success make the role of public libraries as trusted guides in a rapidly changing world increasingly vital. Every day, libraries offer programs, services, and resources that introduce the possibilities of technology, build digital literacy skills, and provide access for all. This Leadership Brief highlights the role of libraries as community technology leaders who are uniquely qualified to bridge digital divides, support community priorities, and improve quality of life, working in close partnership with community leaders. It provides examples of how libraries are leveraging technology to deliver services that meet community needs and identifies six action strategies to achieve the best possible opportunities for the entire community.