Digital divide alive and well in Sauk Village

Daily Southtown article criticizes computer access fee at public library.
A second editorial addresses differences between the haves and the have nots.

The most disturbing part though is the failed partnership between the library and the school district. Here was a chance for a small-budget library to add 6 computer terminals.
The library currently has 4 + 1 OPAC.

Nancy McConathy Library Director Nannette Wargo said:

"You can do a lot of learning without a computer," said Wargo, who said the usage fees merely are a way to offset the cost of maintaining the library's four computers on a tight budget. She points to neighboring communities such as Harvey and Dolton that also charge similar fees.

She should have said neighboring POOR communities. As I'm unaware of any communities that actually border Sauk Village that charge for computer use, and budget probably does figure prominently.

They'll spend my tax dollars on downloadable audiobooks (link denied), but won't jump at the chance to get more computers?

For once, district 168 was going to spend money on something important and useful, and try to help the community, which is still bitter from the gross misuse of funds 2 years ago.

The library should be partnering with the schools in any way possible to enhance the kids' learning experiences. Where are these kids accessing online applications for jobs & school? Where are their parents accessing the internet, to fill out the online forms for gov't aid, apply for jobs, download tax forms, etc? (Well, some are using our hassle-free temporary internet cards to get online at Lansing.)

Arrrrgh!