Vermont State Department of Libraries

The Vermont State Department of Libraries is coordinating e-Vermont’s efforts to respond to local library needs and is administering grant funds designated for public libraries. Eligible libraries may use grant funds to develop public computing centers and other Internet-based library services by purchasing equipment (computers, scanners, printers), software and tech support, implementing library automation, or introducing new digital resources.

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The Department of Libraries (VDOL) is proud to be a partner in the e-Vermont Community Broadband Project. During the two-year grant period VDOL will work with public libraries to help them improve their online services and expand and strengthen public computing capacity.

Public libraries are the local providers of free public access to computers and the internet. Of the 183 public libraries in Vermont, most now offer high-speed public internet access and over 50% of our libraries have public wireless service. In FY09 these libraries reported over 970,000 public computer sessions – a 25% increase over the previous year. Vermonters are using public library computers to find jobs, participate in e-commerce, start new businesses, access online government services, find learning opportunities, get current health information, communicate globally, and find the current information they need to conduct their lives and make wise choices for themselves and their families.

The Department of Libraries has a team of four regional library consultants who are working closely with the e-Vermont libraries in their assigned regions. The consultants provide support and expertise to help library directors and library trustees create project proposals. They are also assisting with the implementation of new services and equipment.

Working collaboratively with local government, schools, businesses and community groups the e-Vermont libraries will determine local community needs and develop 21st Century digital and online services to meet those needs. e-Vermont libraries may choose to use these grant funds to install public wireless access, create an online library catalog, develop a website or e-newsletter or provide computer training classes.

e-Vermont libraries will be awarded grant funds based on project proposals made to the Vermont Department of Libraries. All participating libraries will be guaranteed a minimum grant award; additional funds will be distributed on a competitive basis.

For more information, contact:

Martha Reid, State Librarian: martha.reid @ state.vt.us / 802-828-3265
Or
One of the Department of Libraries Regional Consultants:
Rob Geiszler: rob.geiszler @ state.vt.us / 802-786-3839
Amy Howlett: amy.howlett @ state.vt.us / 802-463-0142
Jeremiah Kellogg: jeremiah.kellogg @ state.vt.us / 802-828-2320
Michael Roche: michael.roche @ state.vt.us / 802-748-3428