Nevada Public Library receives Gates Foundation grant for computers

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.

Many of Nevada Public Library's patrons use computers and the Internet to earn long-distance learning degrees, find critical health care information, file tax forms, search for jobs or fill out job applications.

"Computer and Internet access have become essential services that our patrons need," said library director Susan McBeth. "It's critical that we have the resources necessary to properly maintain these technology tools so that our library can help all people in Nevada and Vernon County at large access the information they need to thrive and contribute fully to our community."

While nearly 100 percent of U.S. public libraries now offer free computer and Internet services, many struggle to maintain them as budget cuts threaten to reduce operating hours, limit access to staff training and technical support, and make it difficult to keep pace with new technologies.

"The Nevada Public Library operates on property tax from the city of Nevada, based on a library levy. That income has been stagnant in Nevada for several years now while the cost of everything necessary to run the library has gone up", McBeth said. "We have 20 public access computers which are full most of the day. The expense to keep pace with the ever-changing technology is huge. That makes grants such as this one so fabulous to receive!"