The Role of Public Libraries in Improving Local Open Government Ecosystems
Summary
Project started on Oct. 24, 2013 (Completed)
CTG will bring together thought leaders from academia, government, and private and non-profit organizations through a national forum to explore the future role of public libraries as integral partners in local open government initiatives within the context of a community information ecosystem. CTG will work with an Advisory Committee of representatives from public libraries, local governments, and open government experts to develop an initial concept paper on the roles that public libraries can play in local open government ecosystems.
State and local governments are exploring new ways to open their governments using technology to engage citizens, increase transparency and accountability. Such efforts provide new opportunities and challenges for public libraries as citizens turn to them for both access to and assistance in their interactions with government. Local open government efforts take place within defined geographically-bound communities that have an existing ecosystem of interrelated people, entities, practices, values, and information sources that supports community information needs. An open government initiative will impact and can be facilitated or impeded by a community’s information ecosystem. Libraries can have a critical influence on an ecosystem and the success of such an initiative.
Press Releases & News Stories
Press Releases
- UAlbany Research Center Receives Federal Funding
- UAlbany Center for Technology in Government Receives Federal Grant to Explore the Role of Public Libraries in Open Government
CTG In the News
- A Demand-side Open Government Planning Model for Public Libraries
UpNext: The IMLS Blog
January 9, 2015 - The New And Improved Public Library
Govloop
January 28, 2015 - Libraries’ role in open government to be explored
Schenectady Daily Gazette
August 31, 2013 - UAlbany to discuss public libraries’ roles in government transparency
American City and County
September 4, 2013 - Center for Technology in Government Will Use Federal Laura Bush Grant to Explore Public Libraries' Role in Open Government
University at Albany
August 28, 2013 - IMLS Announces Grant for National Forum on the Role of Public Libraries in Local Open Government
Institute of Museum and Library Services
August 28, 2013
Publications & Results
- Enabling Smart, Inclusive, and Connected Communities: An Opportunity Agenda and Roadmap Report
- Enabling Smarter Communities: The Case of the Chicago Public Library
- Enabling Smarter Communities: The Case of the Ignacio Community Library
- Enabling Smarter Communities:The Case of the Chattanooga Public Library
- Enabling Smarter Communities: The Case of the Saratoga Springs Public Library
- The Role of Public Libraries in the Development of Smart Cities and Communities: Results from a National Local Government Survey
- The Role of Public Libraries in the Development of Smart Cities and Communities: Results from a National Public Library Survey
- Public Libraries as Key Strategic Partners in Smart City and Smart Community Development
Related Websites
Funding Sources
The Forum is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through a 2013 Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (LB21) grant.