WASHINGTON, April 29, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- New research findings show that the digital divide is expanding, affecting far more than the disconnected—a growing percentage of Americans with advanced online access have insufficient levels of digital skills. Over the past 20 years, libraries—as welcoming institutions to all segments of society, including students, parents, job-seekers and seniors alike—have increased "digital readiness" by offering innovative technology services to Americans wanting to learn how to type, find online applications and navigate research databases.

Panelists will detail effective tactics to sustain and improve technology training and Internet accessibility in libraries and discuss future directions for public access to information in a National Press Club Newsmaker on Tuesday, May 6^th at 10:00 a.m., Zenger Room, National Press Building, 529 14^th St. NW, Washington, D.C.

Panelists:

• Clarence Anthony, executive director, National League of Cities
• John B. Horrigan, communications and technology policy consultant, and author of "The Essentials of Connectivity" report
• Richard Reyes-Gavilan, executive director, District of Columbia Public Library, and former chief librarian of the Brooklyn Public Library
• Barbara Stripling, president, American Library Association, and former director of school library programs for the New York City Department of Education

SOURCE National Press Club