A 2009 study by the Pew Foundation's Internet and American Life Project illustrates the depth of the digital divide.

Pew found that 85 percent of households with an income exceeding $75,000 have broadband service, more than double the 42 percent of households earning less than $30,000 that have Internet service.

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A research specialist with the Pew Internet and American Life Project predicts that affordable personal computers and laptops and expanded community broad band access won't be a factor if, or when, the digital divide does narrow for low-income job-seekers.

The research specialist, Aaron Smith, instead believes the growing market for "smart phones" with mobile Internet technology will level the playing field.

Pew research, Smith said, has already uncovered "promising" evidence that smart phones are closing some of the information gaps between upper and middle class and lower-income users.

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