TV Whites Spaces in Public Libraries: A Primer

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v36i1.9720

Abstract

TV Whitespace (TVWS) represents one new wireless communication technology that has the potential to improve internet access and inclusion. This primer describes TVWS technology as a viable, long-term access solution for the benefit of public libraries and their communities, especially for underserved populations.  Discussion focuses first on providing a brief overview of the digital divide and the emerging role of public libraries as internet access providers.  Next, a basic description of TVWS and its features is provided, focusing on key aspects of the technology relevant to libraries as community anchor institutions. Several TVWS implementations are described with discussion of TVWS implementations in several public libraries.  Finally, consideration is given to first steps that library organizations must take when contemplating new TVWS implementations supportive of Wi-Fi applications and crisis response planning.

Author Biography

Kristen Radsliff Rebmann, San Jose State University School of Information

Overview
  • § Published author and funded investigator contributing to research in the fields of technology integration, learning design, and distance education/librarianship.
  • § Experienced instructor of services for diverse users, learning design for new literacies, ethnographic research methods, and information retrieval.
  • § Recognized leader with experience chairing several committees:  iSchool Retention, Tenure, & Promotion Committee, iSchool Diversity Committee, and SJSU Institutional Review Board (IRB).

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Published

2017-03-31

How to Cite

Rebmann, K. R., Te, E. E., & Means, D. (2017). TV Whites Spaces in Public Libraries: A Primer. Information Technology and Libraries, 36(1), 36–47. https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v36i1.9720

Issue

Section

Communications