Times are tough, no doubt. And in these difficult economic times, there's an interesting trend that deserves the consideration of policymakers, now deep in budget-cutting mode.

Across the nation — and here in Hawai'i — public libraries are experiencing a surge in patrons. But these are not your traditional bookworms. These are people tapping public libraries as a valuable resource in navigating the economic storm. They're researching new careers, using the free Internet services to job hunt and fire off resumes, and finding support among the growing legion of out-of-work professionals through free classes and workshops on finding employment and networking.

That's a good thing, and a resource well worth supporting.

In cities nationwide, public libraries are reporting spikes in usage, some as high as 65 percent from last year, fueled by the economic downtown.

Nearly 75 percent of public libraries in the United States represent the only source of free computer and Internet access in their communities, according to the American Library Association. When more families are forced to make choices between life's basics, the digital divide grows deeper as people give up Internet service or computers.

Public libraries are a great equalizer in that regard.

"We're seeing more and more people come in for educational and employment and governmental information — the resume, the job search information," said Hawai'i State Librarian Richard Burns.

Indeed, Hawai'i's public libraries have seen a spike in users across the board.

Kapolei Library branch manager Stacie Kanno is often tapped to help job seekers, often the largest segment on the computers, make the most of the tool: "We estimate it's going to increase even more. If it's the choice between gas or Internet, or food or Internet, we've seen a lot of people giving up that Internet connection."

Tight budgets also are forcing folks to turn to libraries for budget-friendly entertainment alternatives such as free or bargain-basement DVD rentals, magazines, books and computer games.

But this budget crunch spares no one. Libraries come under the state Board of Education's purview and are faced with a 13.8 percent cut — $4 million. The Hawai'i State Public Library System operates 51 public libraries on a slim $30 million budget.

And there's work to be done. Currently, Hawai'i lags behind other states in Internet speed and connectivity. The state's aggressive efforts to secure federal broadband funding should change that.

Community partnerships, too, can make a difference. So if the public library has touched your life in some way, perhaps opening doors for you as a young reader or providing solace or study space at a time when you needed it most — it's time to give back. Try volunteering or supporting the annual book drive. Corporations can also help with their expertise and donations.

"One of the reasons we're such an important institution in our communities is that we open our doors to everyone, and provide them an opportunity to become success at a much lower cost probably than any other organization and institution can do," says Burns.

That's worth remembering. Our state leaders have some tough budget decisions ahead. The surge in patrons should serve as a reminder that public libraries must be kept viable and vibrant.

It's a wise investment at a time when folks need support services to get their own economic engines up and running again. Who can argue with that?