In 1997 as a first step in a determined effort towards utilizing information technology for the benefit of larger user groups, the Ministry will initiate a process aimed at joining together ALL public libraries in a network. NOK 5 million was granted for this purpose. In its justification for making these funds available, the government emphasizes the following points. Public libraries are a means of introducing information technology to a larger number of potential users. Public libraries have a role to play in spreading information from the public sector to people in general.
Public libraries constitute natural municipal centres for information technology.
Public libraries can provide qualified advice on how to retrieve information. Public libraries have a role to play in an educational perspective with regard to life-long learning. Enough said about the views of the Norwegian government. We received NOK 5 million and the Norwegian Directorate for Public Libraries was charged with its administration. Although far from sufficient to achieve the aims laid down by the government, this sum is still a very good start.