Public libraries as e-government intermediaries

This paper presents an analysis of the potential for public libraries to act as e-government intermediaries (EGIs). EGIs are defined by the UK government as ‘organisations from the private or voluntary sectors offering services targeted at groups of customers’ (Cabinet Office, 2003b: 18). Intermediaries can assist people with their e-government use in recognition of the fact that although governments around the world are establishing e-government services, usage remains low in certain geographic areas and among disadvantaged sections of the population. In this paper, the characteristics of successful EGIs will be identified with the aim of establishing good practice in breaking down the digital divide and opening up e-government services to those who may benefit the most from them.