[OPLINTECH] Connect Ohio data for statewide #ARRA applications

[Stephen Hedges]

People who attended last Thursday's webinar from Connect Ohio concerning 
the statewide applications for ARRA funds to support public computing 
centers in libraries were told that libraries which had completed the 
Connect Ohio survey should expect to receive data from Connect Ohio that 
would help them determine the extent of their participation in the 
applications. That data will be forthcoming by the end of the day, along 
with a draft board resolution and a draft letter of participation.

Once you receive the email, please open and review each attachment 
immediately; your action is needed by THIS FRIDAY, February 26th.

If you did not complete the Connect Ohio survey, you may still be able 
to participate in the statewide applications. Two collaborative grants 
are being prepared for any of Ohio’s public libraries to participate in:
  - First, an application from the State Library of Ohio which will 
request sufficient PCs to serve local communities;
  - Second, a complementary application from Connect Ohio to provide 
training, technical support, and a public awareness campaign.

The State Library will submit an application on behalf of public 
libraries for computers only. The application will be submitted in the 
PCC (Public Computer Center) category. This application will only 
include public computers, either PCs or laptops. For each public 
computer which a library wants to buy, the State Library will be 
requesting $475 in federal funds and the public library must match this 
amount with at least $125, or more if the library wants to buy more 
expensive computers.

Connect Ohio's application will focus on promoting broadband adoption, 
with an emphasis on computer training in libraries. Some library 
locations may be designated as Technology Education Centers (TECs), 
depending upon their ability to host physical training classes. TECs 
will offer classes led by instructors provided by Connect Ohio or your 
existing staff.

If you completed the Connect Ohio survey, you will receive more detailed 
information about these applications in today's mailing. Otherwise, you 
can contact Missy Lodge at the State Library (mlodge at sloma.state.oh.us 
or 614-644-6914), Tom Fritz at Connect Ohio (tfritz at connectohio.org or 
866-881-9424), or me.

-- 
Stephen Hedges, Director
Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN)
2323 W. Fifth Ave., Suite 130
Columbus, OH 43204
614-728-5250  ::  AIM: hedgesst