Calvert Library is eligible for a $8,000 Opportunity Online hardware grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to help provide free, high-quality access to computer workstations for the Southern Branch in Lusby.
The two-year Opportunity Online hardware grants program will provide funding to add public computer workstations in the Southern Branch Library, as well as associated training and tech support. The program is focused on serving populations most in need and libraries which are vulnerable to having their technology services become obsolete.
Eligible libraries must obtain local funding commitments that demonstrate community support for maintaining computer upgrades. The Southern Branch Library will be approaching businesses and individuals to obtain the $5,000 to match the grant. With these funds, the library will add laptop computers for customers to use in the library.
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. Thousands of people use computers at the Southern Branch each year.
“Computer and Internet access have become essential services that our patrons demand,” said Patricia Hofmann, Director of Calvert Library. “It is critical that we have the resources necessary to properly maintain these technology tools so that our library can help all people in the southern part of our county access the information they need to thrive and contribute fully to our community.”
“It is virtually impossible to succeed today without access to computers and the Internet,” said Allan Golston, president of the foundation’s United States Program. “Fast, reliable online access can open a world of economic, educational, and social opportunities. It is imperative that all communities acknowledge the role our libraries play in providing this service and give libraries they support they need to continue providing critical technology tools long into the future.”
About the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives. In developing countries, it focuses on improving people’s health and giving them the chance to lift themselves out of hunger and extreme poverty. In the United States, it seeks to ensure that all people -- especially those with the fewest resources -- have access to the opportunities they need to succeed in school and life. Based in Seattle, the foundation is led by CEO Patty Stonesifer and co-chair William H. Gates Sr., under the direction of Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett. More information is available at: www.gatesfoundation.org.
The Calvert Independent
