Report on closing the digital divide: meeting of the Deparment of Commerce, Washington, DC December 9, 1999

Abstract

Secretary of Commerce William M. Daley chaired a lively Roundtable discussion about how to close the digital divide. This national problem, described in the July 1999 report: "Falling through the Net: Defining the Digital Divide" (www.ntia.doc.gov), is the growing gap between rich and poor in terms of their internet usage. The gap between welleducated and poorly educated is also increasing. Today's 90minute discussion by government, business, and community leaders (see list below) tried to draw attention to the issues, describe efforts to deal with it, and promote new initiatives. Secretary Daley promised annual reports on progress and needs. The 800+ pre-registered attendees filled the auditorium and the overflow crowd watched by video in the cafeteria.