Library technology grants aimed at jobs

Published: July 5, 2011
Related to: Northern eTeam

Freeport is among 41 libraries and community college learning resource centers that will share in a nearly $1 million grant awarded to the Illinois State Library to enhance broadband computer access to citizens across Illinois. “The digital divide prevents many low-income citizens from having access to important technology and educational programs that can greatly enrich their lives,” Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White said in a statement announcing the grant.

The “Eliminate the Digital Divide Program Grant” will provide equipment, training, and services for broadband-delivered education.  In Freeport, the focus will be to target people looking for jobs, according to Pat Vorwald, head of adult services at Freeport Public Library. “If you aren’t computer literate, you are almost in another world,” Vorwald said. “Unfortunately, the way the world is going, everything is online.”

With the grant, the Freeport library will add a new computer lab (six stations) geared to adults seeking jobs and training. The library already teaches computer classes and will expand on those to offer instruction to job seekers. This instruction will include keyboarding, resume writing, and online job searching.

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