Local libraries receive more than $18,000 in grants

VOICE staff
Community Foundation of Greater South Wood County recently made $18,275 in grants to four area libraries to help local residents get better access to computers, the internet and information.
“Libraries are a main source of access and education to many individuals in the community,” noted Liz Everson, Director of Knowledge Management & Community Information. “This grant provides resources to local libraries to help them connect with and assist more people.”
Four local libraries received grants: Lester Public Library of Rome, Pittsville Community Library, Lester Public Library of Vesper, and Charles & JoAnn Lester Library in Nekoosa.
“The demands on library services are higher than ever,” explained Lore Ponshock, Library Director at Lester Public Library of Rome. “Librarians are being asked to help individuals with anything from job applications to basic computer skills. This grant provides us with the resources to serve many more library patrons.”
Each library applying for a grant determined where they would make the greatest impact in addressing the digital divide. For example, Nekoosa’s library added an additional computer workstation, and will offer free Internet classes, technology “petting zoo” days and one-on-one computer assistance. Funding is provided as part of the Community Foundation’s Community Information Challenge, through the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.
“We’re pleased that four of our local libraries pursued this grant and encourage others to apply,” Everson said. “This is intended to benefit all residents in greater south Wood County who need better access to computers.”