I want to share some good news with you. Weedsport Free Library recently received news that it is eligible for a $5,200 Opportunity Online Hardware Grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, awarded through a partnership with the New York State Library, to help provide free, high-quality access to computer workstations for the Weedsport Free Library service area.
The two-year Opportunity Online hardware grants program will provide funding to replace, and in some cases, add public computer workstations in libraries, as well as associated training and tech support.
The program is focused on serving populations most in need and libraries that are vulnerable to having their technology services become obsolete.
Eligible libraries must obtain local funding commitments that demonstrate community support for maintaining computer upgrades. These grants are expected to be the last round given by the foundation to support vulnerable technology in U.S. libraries.
With almost 40 percent of Americans still lacking Internet access at home, libraries are a critical link to technology for many who cannot afford the service on their own. Millions of Americans use computers and the Internet at public libraries to earn long-distance learning degrees, start and advance small businesses, find critical health information, find jobs, learn English, get e-government information and more. In today's culture, computers are not just for recreational use, they are quickly becoming a vital necessity for conducting personal and work business.
Computer and Internet access have become essential services that our patrons demand. It is critical that we have the resources necessary to properly maintain these technology tools so that our library can help all people in our service area access the information they need to thrive and contribute fully to our community.
Many libraries struggle to keep pace with technology and rapidly increasing community demand for these services. In 2001, Weedsport Library increased the number of public computers from two to four because of an earlier Gates Grant Program.
The equipment has served us very well but is showing its age with increased need for repairs.
The Board of Trustees is sensitive to the issue of planning for future technology needs and upkeep of equipment.
The Friends of the Library and this new Gates Grant are giving the technology budget just the boost it is looking for.
We are appreciative of the Friends for providing the required matching funds ($1,300 in year one, $1,300 in year two).
Eligibility for the grant was based on a formula. Other Cayuga County libraries receiving grant funds include: Fair Haven Public Library, Seymour Public Library, Springport Free Library (in Union Springs) and Stewart B. Lang Memorial Library (in Cato).
The equipment will begin to arrive by fall. We look forward to providing up-to-date critical technology tools that enables access for all.
Cheryl Austin is a librarian in Weedsport.
The program is focused on serving populations most in need and libraries that are vulnerable to having their technology services become obsolete.
Eligible libraries must obtain local funding commitments that demonstrate community support for maintaining computer upgrades. These grants are expected to be the last round given by the foundation to support vulnerable technology in U.S. libraries.
With almost 40 percent of Americans still lacking Internet access at home, libraries are a critical link to technology for many who cannot afford the service on their own. Millions of Americans use computers and the Internet at public libraries to earn long-distance learning degrees, start and advance small businesses, find critical health information, find jobs, learn English, get e-government information and more. In today's culture, computers are not just for recreational use, they are quickly becoming a vital necessity for conducting personal and work business.
Computer and Internet access have become essential services that our patrons demand. It is critical that we have the resources necessary to properly maintain these technology tools so that our library can help all people in our service area access the information they need to thrive and contribute fully to our community.
Many libraries struggle to keep pace with technology and rapidly increasing community demand for these services. In 2001, Weedsport Library increased the number of public computers from two to four because of an earlier Gates Grant Program.
The equipment has served us very well but is showing its age with increased need for repairs.
The Board of Trustees is sensitive to the issue of planning for future technology needs and upkeep of equipment.
The Friends of the Library and this new Gates Grant are giving the technology budget just the boost it is looking for.
We are appreciative of the Friends for providing the required matching funds ($1,300 in year one, $1,300 in year two).
Eligibility for the grant was based on a formula. Other Cayuga County libraries receiving grant funds include: Fair Haven Public Library, Seymour Public Library, Springport Free Library (in Union Springs) and Stewart B. Lang Memorial Library (in Cato).
The equipment will begin to arrive by fall. We look forward to providing up-to-date critical technology tools that enables access for all.
Cheryl Austin is a librarian in Weedsport.
