Government information kiosks in the US and the Michigan Electronic Library

Abstract

With the United States further along in terms of the use of IT for information provision, US information professionals have already addressed many of the issues that their UK counterparts are only recently facing. Perhaps we can look to their experiences for possible suggestions, as well as problem areas to avoid. Sue Davidsen is a 1995 recipient of the Paul W. Thurston Award for increasing access to government information through her role as creator and designer of GoMLink. In this article she outlines the history of the United States Postal Service kiosk project and the subsequent reaction of librarians, then goes on to describe the history of the Michigan Electronic Library, its development and strengths.

Public-Access Interactive Computers at State Welcome Centers in the United States: 1991 and 1995 Studies

“…Government Information Technology Services Working Group 1995;U.S. National Performance Review and Government Information Technology Services Board 1997;Davidsen 1996), also might foster improved technological applications for travel kiosks and might increase public demand for improved, personalized access to unlimited infor-mation sources. The potential for new technology applications in tourist information dissemination is extensive.…”