South Carolina Public Library Economic Impact Study - Illinois

EDGEFIELD• My family uses "DISCUS" databases for research, which is accessed from ourhome computers. DISCUS provided information, which is NOT available onInternet.FAIRFIELD• Instead of buying books to help my child improve her reading skills, I am ableto check out books. The videos the library has allow my children to see newmovies without having to purchase them. The same applies to my husbandand myself. We are able to check out tapes, books, and videos without havingto purchase them.GREENVILLE• I used the library to help facilitate a job search. In addition to reviewing theweekly help wanted ads from newspapers throughout the Southeast, I was ableto research the companies running those ads in order to focus my cover letterand resume on the company’s specific application.• The greatest economic benefit that I have received from the GreenvilleLibrary System has been free access to an outstanding selection of books,music, movies, and other resources that I otherwise may not have been able toafford. It has assisted me in both civic and personal growth while providing aservice that makes me proud of Greenville.• Using Reference USA in the resources section has helped me obtain contact,economic as well as other information about local businesses. I used thisinformation in preparing proper proposals to the targeted businesses and as aresult have done some sound business in the community, thus improving myown financial situation• I check on many of my accounts via the internet at the library, I have madefriends in New Zealand, South Africa, Rome Italy, England, and right here athome via the internet at the library as well as friends in person at the library. Ihave been disabled over 10 years and this is of great economic benefit to meliving on an income of under $600 a month.• Ability to search costly databases, which are available only through librarysubscriptions, allows me to do more work for my organization and also obtainevaluative information, which would otherwise be unavailable to me. Whilesome databases may be available through individual subscription, the priceswould be higher than I could afford to pay, even though I am certainly notpoor. Being able to search these databases from home also allows me toconduct research more efficiently by doing it at any time of day or night,without worrying about whether a computer will be available after I drive to alibrary location, and without worrying about privacy while viewing the resultson the screen. I use the Library's website, its databases (including the librarycatalog), or its web links to free sites (especially the health-related ones)almost daily.• The library has provided valuable materials -- books and CDs -- that havesupported my volunteer activities with a local nonprofit performing artsSouth Carolina Public Library Economic Impact Study 39