Libraries and Learning
Most Americans think that local libraries serve the educational needs of their communities and families well. But many do not know about key education services libraries provide.
Most Americans think that local libraries serve the educational needs of their communities and families well. But many do not know about key education services libraries provide.
A large majority of Americans seek extra knowledge for personal and work-related reasons. Digital technology plays a notable role in these knowledge pursuits, but place-based learning remains vital to many.
A majority of Americans predict that within 50 years, robots and computers will do much of the work currently done by humans, but few expect their own jobs to experience substantial impacts.
The share of 18- to 24-year-olds who report having used online dating has nearly tripled in the past two years, while usage among 55- to 64-year-olds has doubled.
Many Americans say they might provide personal information in commercial settings, depending on the deal being offered and how much risk they face.
Parents monitor their teen’s digital activities in a number of ways, such as checking browser histories or social media profiles, but using technical means like parental controls is less common.
The share of Americans with broadband at home has plateaued: It now stands at 67%, down slightly from 70% in 2013. At the same time, more Americans rely only on their smartphones for online access.
Americans' attitudes toward games – and the people who play them – are complex and often uncertain.
Fully 32% of online adults say science and technology is among the topics they find most interesting; 37% say health and medicine.
The internet is a central resource for Americans looking for work, but a notable minority lack confidence in their digital job-seeking skills.