In a new study published today (April 25) by the Pew Internet and American Life Project, researchers found that over a third (36%) of online American adults have consulted Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia created collaboratively and entirely by web users.

Not only was Wikipedia found to be popular, its users were frequent and regular (8% reporting daily use “on a typical winter day”). Users were well educated (22% with college degrees) and typically young (in the 18-29 year old age group, 44% were users).

Why has Wikipedia become the research tool of choice, despite the occasional controversy that surrounds it? Probably because of convenience, a predisposition to appear in Google hits, the volume of material it contains, and the uniqueness of some of its content, especially in the area of news and technology. In a recent reference desk search for information on the Blu-Ray video format, the Wikipedia content beat the competition hands-down.

What do you think? Do you use Wikipedia? Does the recent controversy over Pat Binns’ Wikipedia biography demonstrate the encyclopedia’s strengths or its weakness?

Digital cameras are available for loan from both the Charlottetown Centre & Tourism and Culinary Centre libraries. Need to take a picture of your class, presentation, display, team, sporting event? Borrow a camera from your local library and capture the moment.  Cameras are available for loan to registered students, faculty and staff on a first-come, first-serve basis, and may be borrowed during school hours only.  So sign out a camera today and start snapping!