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  Over 850 AG Neovo displays helping the Milwaukee Public Library provide free internet service for the local community. At a Glance - A Popular and Vital Resource Despite its intimidating 19th century appearance, the Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) system is a popular and vital resource to everyone in the over half million-strong city of Milwaukee. In 2006, visitors numbered almost 2.5 million and items checked out reached over 2.8 million. Perhaps the most significant figure, however, is hours of in-library computer use, which reached 475,000, or almost 40,000 hours a month-a surprisingly high figure that reveals the MPL's changing role in the community. For any library, meeting the evolving needs of 21st century patrons is not easy, especially in computer and Internet services. According to a study published by the American Library Association (ALA), only one in five libraries can adequately meet demand at all times. The MPL, however, has met these challenges head on, armed with strong leadership, strategic planning and an unexpected ally-AG Neovo displays. The Environment - Modern Library More than Books on a Shelf Founded in 1878, the Milwaukee Public Library system has grown with the advances in technology and societal trends to 13 branches, over 2.7 million books, magazines, newspapers and CDs; 6,000 rare books and manuscripts, no less than a dozen special collections and even a 700-seat auditorium. "Today's library users know the library has grown beyond a collection of books on a shelf," writes Tom Barrett, Mayor of Milwaukee. As the library system has changed, the board of trustees has responded quickly, focusing on improvements through three initiatives to expand the scope and ambition of library: Community and Connection; 21st Century Literacy; and Efficiency and Excellence. Through these initiatives, "Milwaukee Public Libraries offer computer classes, story times, job assistance and preparedness programs, lectures from visiting authors, educational programming, small business tools, literacy training and much, much more." The Opportunity - Library Parking: $1.00. Free Internet: Priceless. A key factor in all three of these initiatives is technology, something research suggests very strongly is driving this library evolution. According to ALA President Loriene Roy, "Today's public libraries are thriving technology hubs that millions rely on for their first or only choice for Internet access." Nationwide, more than 73% of libraries are the only source of free public access to computers and the Internet in their communities. The Milwaukee Public Library knows this from firsthand experience. In 2006, the MPL offered over 400 computer classes, with over 4,200 people attending. Since the programme was created in 1999, the library has offered 3,625 classes with a total attendance of 31,924. In October 2007, PC usage hit 50,000 hours a month, a 15% increase from 2006. Page 1 / 2 / Next |
  Quick Facts Environment The Milwaukee Public Library system is a popular and vital resource. In 2006, 2.5 million visitors logged 475,000 hours of in-library computer use, which is almost 50,000 hours a month. Display Solution Nearly 100% of the 850 available computers are connected to E-Series displays. Top Benefits
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