5.5 Computer knowledge and experience

Though many sources of whakapapa information are physically available in public libraries there are also valuable sources of information available in the online environment. Additionally, computers are important conduits or access points to locating information within the library through the use of the library catalogue. Parker’s (2003) research into Māori access and use of information technology suggests that Māori users are subject to a “digital divide”, meaning their access to information technologies falls behind that of the general population. This is supported by the work of Duncker (2002) and Simpson (2005) who focused on Māori library customers. Determining whether or not these factors also apply to whakapapa researchers will have implications for how public libraries utilise and promote IT (information technology) for these customers.