FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 22, 2004

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