Since going online earlier this year, the library now offers free internet access for anyone who walks in. The library also sponsors outreach programs with computer instructor Brian Cleary who drives out from Kodiak College to teach computer skills to local residents. Because of technology it is more possible than ever before to participate in both of these worlds while living in rural areas. Neither of these requires a person to live in a large community, given the technology to participate from afar. In fact, it may be better to live in a small place.
Smaller groups are more conducive to active participation.
Classrooms can have too many people, making some people not participate. So too with communities. Libraries have always been the nexus to the world of culture and learning, and with online access even rural Alaskan libraries can be gateways to information and communities worldwide. This holds tremendous promise for Alaska. Don't wish for a unilateral answer to our educational dilemmas.