Austin, TX – The Library Digital Opportunity office (LDO) at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) has launched a new Texas Public Libraries Speed Test Dashboard. This tool enables Texas public libraries and their patrons to compare their internet upload and download speeds with others across the state.
The dashboard offers filters by region, population, and income levels. It features a zoomable, interactive map for data visualization. Promise Madu, LDO Data and Project Coordinator, recently completed this project.
“In today’s digital era, libraries need to be prepared to fulfill their patrons’ needs," Madu stated. "A speed test dashboard empowers libraries to track their performance and strive towards meeting the standards required to offer dependable, high-speed internet access to everyone who depends on them, thereby bridging the digital divide.”
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently raised the broadband standard to 100 Mbps download. LDO's annual speed test tracking revealed that many Texas public libraries do not meet the previous minimum threshold of 25 Mbps download. As federal legislation now prioritizes fiber technology, LDO has set an aspirational goal of 1 Gbps for all libraries aiming to support their communities effectively.
Using LDO’s speed test results, individual libraries can assess whether they fall below FCC’s minimum standards for households and similarly-sized libraries. This awareness could help them request funding assistance to enhance connectivity and provide more consistent service quality.
Henry Stokes, LDO’s Digital Opportunity Program Coordinator, emphasized the importance of public libraries in providing free internet access: “Public libraries are often a community’s only source of free internet. They are also the best potential option for learning the necessary skills to make use of the technology required to access the internet,” he said. “Libraries have a long history of providing frontline support for their patrons’ digital opportunity needs—whether it’s publicly available computers, fast Internet access or digital literacy training.”
LDO plans to utilize speed test data in collaboration with the Texas State Broadband Development Office (BDO). This partnership aims to track outcomes in availability and affordability of fixed broadband technology supporting state policy priorities like economic development, education access, health improvement, and civic engagement.
Texas public libraries are encouraged to participate in TSLAC’s annual Public Library Speed Test until May 31. The updated data will reflect 2024 speeds. The test takes only a few minutes; more information is available at www.tsl.texas.gov/speedtest.
To view the Texas Public Libraries Speed Test Dashboard visit https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/ldodashboards/viz/TestDataLib/Dashboard1. For further details on TSLAC's technological support initiatives in Texas public libraries visit www.tsl.texas.gov/ldn/tech.
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The Texas State Library and Archives Commission provides Texans access to essential information by preserving Texas' archival record; enhancing public library services; assisting public agencies with records maintenance; and addressing reading needs for Texans with disabilities. More information is available at www.tsl.texas.gov.
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