Digital Information Kiosks

Abstract

The word “kiosk” is derived from the Turkish word “kösk,” meaning an open summerhouse or pavilion. Before the arrival of computer technologies, a kiosk was a small, rugged standalone structure often used as a newsstand or bandstand in public places. As early as the 1870s, kiosks could be found in the streets of Paris for displaying theater and gallery advertisements. The advancement of information technologies in the 20th century gave information kiosks a new meaning. Instead of being simple post-boards for printed materials, digital information kiosks now provide not only easy and convenient access to information, but also transactional services that traditional kiosks could not perform. As the scope of digital government continues to expand, digital kiosks are becoming an important platform to support a wide range of e-government strategies.