Research Examines How Public Libraries Can Use Broadband

The Measuring Library Broadband Networks for the National Digital Platform project is funded by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) National Leadership Grant for Libraries program (award #LG-71-18-0110-18).

Researchers at Simmons University, along with Internet2, Measurement Lab (MLAB), Code for Science & Society, and the Community Informatics Lab (CI Lab), will examine how public libraries can utilize broadband measurement tools and training materials to develop a better understanding of the relationship between library network infrastructure and digital services.

In collaboration with public librarians and Research and Education (R&E) Network partners, the project will gather data to understand broadband speeds and quality of service that public libraries receive, assess how well the broadband service and infrastructure are supporting their communities’ digital needs, and understand broadband network usage and capacity.

Findings from the research will be used to create the project’s three deliverables: an open-source and replicable broadband measurement platform, a broadband measurement platform training manual for public librarians, and a final report on the project.