Public Libraries and E-government

Australian governments at all levels have embraced the internet to deliver information and services. However there is a large divide between development of these services and the community's capacity to use them. An effective way to bridge this gap is for government to support intermediaries who already assist people in their use of online government services. Based on research conducted by the NSW Public Library Network research committee the role of public libraries as intermediaries for online government services is assessed. Public libraries are uniquely positioned within their local communities to continue in this role but they require acknowledgement and support from all levels of government for their contribution.