11 May 2001

Does knowledge really matter?

What is knowledge? What is information? What's the difference?

Who has the right to access information? Who needs it?

Who 'owns' information?

Who opens the doors to the world of information? Who closes them?

Is there a 'digital divide'?

Does information matter in a knowledge culture?

These are just some of the questions that will be raised during Library and Information Week 2001, 14-20 May 2001. That is why the theme for the week is 'Knowledge outlook'.

Few question the right of individuals to have free and equitable access to information. But just as few have any idea what this really means.

Libraries, and the professionals who work in them, are the ideal gatekeepers to the world of information. A fact recognised by the approximately half of Australian residents who regularly use their public library.

Libraries are ideally situated to narrow the gap between the information 'rich' and the information 'poor'. A phone survey conducted by the Australian Library and Information Association revealed that public libraries have more than 1800 internet access points, located in more than 550 locations. Adding national, state and territory libraries, the number of internet access points rises to more than 2000.

ABS data shows that libraries and educational institutions are key providers of internet access to those who do not have access from home or work. In 2000, six per cent of all adults accessed the internet in libraries - equivalent to 828 000 people.

Where would our society be without libraries? Do you really want to know?

Library and Information Week 2001, Knowledge Outlook, is co-ordinated by the Australian Library and Information Association. Libraries and information centres around the country will be organising events to raise awareness of the value libraries and skilled library and information professionals add to our society.