Still Digitally Divided? An Assessment of Historically Black College and University Library Web Sites

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are post-secondary institutions which, at one time, were considered to be particularly affected by the digital divide. Research study results have suggested the need for HBCUs to continuously increase campus technology. Guided by four research questions, this study examines the current state of electronic access at HBCUs by analyzing 20 library Web sites. Study findings discuss the extent to which the sites provide patrons with access to library materials and services. Non-HBCU library Web sites are also analyzed to add an element of comparison and contrast. Findings indicate that HBCUs still face some challenges in technological service provision but their library Web sites show evidence of progress being made to bridge the digital divide.