Don Means

Don Means is the Director of the Gigabit Libraries Network (GLN), a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing the role of libraries in providing high-performance internet access and technology solutions to communities. He has been in this position since October 2012, focusing on transforming libraries into tech-driven community hubs.

Professional Background

• Founder and Principal: Means is also the co-founder of Digital Village Associates, a consulting firm established in 1994 that specializes in information and communications technologies for local communities.12
• Initiatives: Under his leadership, GLN has launched several significant projects, including:
  • The Libraries WhiteSpace Project, which aims to utilize unlicensed TV WhiteSpace spectrum to improve public access to information and communication technologies (ICT) in libraries.2
  • The Community SecondNets campaign, promoting alternative network infrastructures using TV WhiteSpace for connectivity between libraries, schools, and clinics.1

Advocacy and Contributions

Means has been actively involved in various advocacy efforts:

• He chairs the Partnership for Public Access, which promotes universal internet access through libraries and community networks.1
• He co-founded the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband Coalition, advocating for affordable broadband connections for anchor institutions across the U.S..2

Education and Early Career

Means holds a finance degree from Southern Methodist University and has studied architecture and environmental design at the University of Texas. His early career includes roles in marketing and business development within the technology sector.1

Personal Life

Residing in Sausalito, California, Means continues to influence the intersection of technology and community service through his work with GLN and other initiatives aimed at expanding digital access.

For more detailed insights into his professional journey, you can view his LinkedIn profile here.