TWENTY-SIX new computers have been received for libraries in Martins Ferry, Bridgeport, Shadyside, Powhatan Point, Bethesda and Flushing as a result of help from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Yvonne Myers, library director, said the grant to replace patron computers is being distributed over two years, and the first-year grant totals $41,600 with a 25 percent match of $10,400. The second-year grant is $36,400 with a 50 percent match of $18,200.
The library has matched funds for the first year with a grant from the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley and a donation from a bequest received by the library.
Additional computers will be received during the second year, and donations are being sought for the second-year match.
The library has placed donation jars at all locations to help raise money for the second-year match from the local communities in accordance with the wishes of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, according to Myers.
"We're very grateful to the Foundation," said Myers. "Without it, we couldn't afford computers this year."
She said the new computers have flat screens and upgraded hardware, and they work faster than the old ones.
Six of the new computers have been installed to replace older computers at the Martins Ferry Public Library, and four each will be installed in the branch libraries in Bridgeport, Shadyside, Powhatan Point, Bethesda and Flushing over the next few weeks. She asked that residents excuse the inconvenience during the installations.
Noting the library has had the older computers for about eight years, Myers said, "In computer lingo, that's probably 50 years."
Some of the older computers may be used elsewhere.
A program has been installed in the Martins Ferry library and also will become available in the Bridgeport and Shadyside libraries, enabling patrons to log themselves onto the computers with a current library card. Myers explained this is done by punching in the library card number and pin number.
Along with the new computers, additional upgrades are being installed such as wireless at all locations, new printers with color and miscellaneous hardware to support the new equipment. Windows 7 will be installed along with Microsoft Office 2007 Professional Edition plus other useful software.
The second year of the grant will allow more upgrades and possibly, laptops for library use at all locations. Myers mentioned the possibility of laptops at branches where there's not a lot of room.
It was noted the Gates Foundation's Opportunity Online hardware grant program is designed to help the library provide free access to computers for library patrons long into the future.
Myers pointed out the funding for libraries has been decreased because of recent budget cuts, and reduced hours and staffing have presented difficulties in every location. "To receive this grant means that the library can still offer quality computer service at all locations to keep the digital divide away from our area," she added.
Anyone wishing to donate to the computer project may use Paypal on the Martins Ferry library's Web page, mfpl.org, or send a check to the library at P.O. Box 130, Martins Ferry, OH 43935. Call the library at 633-0314 for additional information.
Pokas can be reached at timesleader@timesleaderonline.com.
