Broadband Technology Opportunities Program brings new computers, special assistance equipment to all branches in next 12 months
HENDERSON, Nev. – In recent years, the use of computers and the Internet has become more of a necessity than a luxury, leaving those who can’t afford up-to-date technology behind. During the next 12 months, Henderson Libraries will be able to increase its public computing capabilities by 20 percent with help from a $180,589 grant from the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP). The National Telecommunications and Information Administration will collaborate with Henderson Libraries on the Nevada One Click Away program.
An overall $806,000 grant was awarded to a group of Nevada’s libraries, and to receive its $180,589 portion, Henderson Libraries was required to produce a 20 percent match, or $45,148. In return, the library district’s six branches will receive 198 new computers, increasing public computing by 20 percent during the next 12 months. The branches also will receive low vision assistance software and keyboards, which will be available at every work station in all six library branches. The remainder of the overall grant was awarded to the Cooperative Libraries Automated Network in Northern Nevada, the Nevada State Library and Archives and the Carson City Library.
“Today, it’s difficult to look for a job, pay bills or find information without the use of a computer and broadband technology,” said Tom Fay, Henderson Libraries’ executive director. “With the additional computers, low vision assistance software and keyboards, the library district’s six branches can better serve the community.”
Established in 1943 as a single library in Downtown Henderson, Henderson Libraries operates six locations throughout Henderson. Henderson Libraries cooperates with other public libraries in Southern Nevada, the Nevada System of Higher Education, the Clark County School District and all other libraries around the state to provide quality service for Nevada’s residents.
For additional information on this event or Henderson Libraries and its many services and resources, visit www.mypubliclibrary.com or call 702-492-6581.