WASHINGTON, DC — The American Library Association (ALA) has issued the below statement on the memorandum of understanding between the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), announced on June 24, 2022:
ALA President Patricia “Patty” Wong said, “We are pleased by today’s move by the FCC to recognize the role libraries play in bringing digital equity to communities across the country. The closer the connection between the FCC and IMLS, the closer America comes to closing learning gaps.
“Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, IMLS investments enabled libraries nationwide to assess connectivity needs, procure affordable broadband services, complete E-rate applications, train staff, and obtain technology. ALA appreciates IMLS’s initiative in reaching this memorandum of understanding.
“We hope that this new relationship between the FCC and IMLS will not only connect more Americans to the internet, but connect them to the digital skills needed to use it. From the young person learning to code computers to the patron using a mouse for the first time to students doing research, libraries provide both the technology and expertise that fosters lifelong learning and opportunity.
Originally published at https://www.ala.org/news/press-releases/2022/06/imls-and-fcc-sign-memorandum-understanding-help-close-digital-divide
