Subject: IMLS Launches Second Technology and Digitization Survey

July 22, 2004 

IMLS Contacts: 
Eileen Maxwell [log in to unmask]
Mamie Bittner [log in to unmask]
202/606-8339
 
IMLS Launches Second Technology and Digitization Survey
 
Washington, DC-The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
launched its second survey on the Status of Technology and Digitization
in the Nation's Museums and Libraries this month.  The first survey,
published in May 2002, established baseline data that was helpful in
clarifying how libraries and museums use technology and digitization,
and in defining their future needs. The report is available online at:
www.imls.gov/reports/techreports/intro02.htm. The goal of the second
survey is to update the baseline data and capture related information on
new developments and trends. 
 
"It is clear from our first survey that museums and libraries are using
technologies to connect people to the services and information these
institutions provide," said Dr. Robert Martin, director of the IMLS.
"The second survey will explore barriers to technology adoption and
digitization and assess how widely collaboration is used as a strategy
by museums and libraries for the systematic digitization of America's
collections."
 
Museums, libraries, archives, and state library administrative agencies
will be able to use the information from the second survey to gauge
their performance relative to the field and each community relative to
each other, as well as identifying areas needing attention.  IMLS will
use the survey information to develop program policy, as well as to
inform grants and other activities.
 
The results and recommendations that come out of the survey will be
publicized and distributed widely and given to key national and state
policy makers.  IMLS has contracted with Caliber Associates Inc. of
Fairfax, Virginia, to conduct this survey. The survey report is expected
in early 2005.
 
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is an independent federal
grant-making agency dedicated to creating and sustaining a nation of
learners by helping libraries and museums serve their communities.  The
Institute fosters leadership, innovation, and a lifetime of learning by
supporting the nation's 15,000 museums and 122,000 libraries. The
Institute also encourages partnerships to expand the educational benefit
of libraries and museums.  To learn more about the Institute, please log
onto: http://www.imls.gov.

Eileen Maxwell 
Public Affairs Specialist 
Institute of Museum and Library Services 
1100 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. 
Suite 510 
Washington, DC  20506 
202-606-8339 
202-606-8591 (fax) 
[log in to unmask] 
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