Even a bright and punchy infographic can't disguise how ugly the situation has become for public libraries. To illustrate its latest report, the American Library Association put its findings in graphic form, and the stats are stark: 57% report a flat or decreased budget, and nearly half report inadequate Internet connection speeds. This, despite the vital resources they provide — 76% report that they help their patrons fill out online job applications; 96% actively assist patrons with using online government services. It's hard to read the good stats without a sick feeling in one's stomach.