The State Library of North Carolina awarded the Appalachian Regional Library two Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grants, totaling $65,314, in fiscal year 2009-2010: a Technology grant in the amount of $45,314, and a Strengthening Public Library Collections grant in the amount of $20,000. Both grants supported the newly renovated Ashe County Public Library, which is a member of the Appalachian Regional Library system.

The library used the Technology Grant to furnish and equip its Computer Center, which features 15 personal computers for public use, a self-service printing station, an interactive white board, and software to manage computer reservations for users. The grant also paid for 6 laptop computers that can be checked out for use within the library building, and an interactive white board installed in the storytime area of the children’s department.

These new resources have already had a positive impact on library service. Since the renovated and expanded library opened on July 1, more than 7,500 people have used library computers, an average of 79 people per day. The library began offering free computer classes in the Computer Center in November, incorporating the interactive white board as an instructional tool. These classes have all been full, and future classes have waiting lists. The interactive white board in the children’s department has also added a new dimension of interactivity to storytime programs, with staff creating special educational activities that make the most of this exciting new technology.

The library used the Strengthening Public Library Collections grant to purchase books for its Business and Career Center. Topics covered include: accounting, business law, business plans, company information, cover letters, demographics, finance, human resources, industry information, international business, interviewing, investment, labor, legal forms, management, manufacturing, market research, marketing, real estate, resumes, small business, and statistics. This special collection supports entrepreneurs, small business owners, individual investors, and job seekers. It is the centerpiece of the library’s effort to contribute significantly to the economic well-being of Ashe County and the region.

“Library service in Ashe County has been greatly enhanced by the new resources funded by these grants,” said County Librarian Jim McQueen. “Support from the State Library and the Library Services and Technology Act makes a huge difference to us as we strive to offer the best possible library service to our customers.”

Administered by the State Library of North Carolina, the LSTA state-based grant program funds projects across the state that enrich the lives of North Carolinians through enhanced and targeted programs and services in libraries, information for lifelong learning, and improving equal access to 21st century library service.

For more information about the Ashe County Public Library Computer Center or Business and Career Center, call 846-2041 x227.

For more information about the library’s services to children, call 846-2041 x223.