Alieda Blandford

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Alieda Blandford’s research centers on the intersection of public libraries, digital information access, and user behavior in the evolving online landscape. Her most cited work, “Google, Public Libraries, and the Deep Web” (2015, 21 citations), critically examines how the dominance of commercial search engines—particularly Google, used by 83% of search users—shapes public expectations and challenges libraries’ roles in providing equitable access to deep web resources. Blandford argues that while these challenges are significant, they are not insurmountable, positioning libraries as vital intermediaries in bridging the gap between surface-level search and authoritative, hidden digital content. Her contributions highlight the tension between user convenience and library missions, offering practical insights for information professionals navigating this terrain. Though her citation count is modest, Blandford’s work resonates in library and information science for its timely, user-centered perspective on digital equity. She is recognized for her ability to translate complex technological shifts into actionable strategies for public librarians, making her a thoughtful voice in discussions on information access and community engagement in the age of Google.