November 2, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

IMLS Press Contacts
202-653-4628
Kevin O'Connell, koconnell@imls.gov
Mamie Bittner, mbittner@imls.gov

ONLINE Survey LIVE November 2, 2011 – November 30, 2011

Washington, DC
—The Institute of Museum and Library Services, working together with the International City/County Management Association and the University of Washington Information School, is seeking public input on its proposed framework for Building Digitally Inclusive Communities. The framework is intended to help community leaders convene community discussions to get the information and stakeholder engagement they need to make strategic decisions about providing public access to broadband.

The Building Digitally Inclusive Communities framework was developed through consultation with more than 100 organizations and individuals, who shared their expert knowledge about different communities' lessons learned and best practices. It describes a vision for digital inclusion and eleven principles. It also makes recommendations about how to get started to develop a implement a community action plan for digital inclusion.

In September and October, community and leadership forums were held in Los Angeles, Oklahoma City, and Bangor to solicit feedback on the proposed framework. This survey seeks feedback from a broader audience.

Survey respondents will be asked about their opinion about the value of the framework to support community collaboration (individuals, businesses, community organization and government), the usefulness of the principles identified in the guide and the effectiveness of report in raising awareness about digital inclusion.

The results of the survey will be used to finalize the framework and also will be summarized in a report on digital inclusion and published on the IMLS web site.

Access the survey at http://imls-framework.surveyanalytics.com.

Learn more about Digitally Inclusive Communities at http://www.imls.gov/about/digitally_inclusive_communities.aspx.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit www.imls.gov.