[OPLINTECH] BTOP news: Connect Ohio change

[Stephen Hedges]

Yesterday afternoon Bill Morris (SLO) and I met again with Connect Ohio,
as we have been frequently throughout the last few weeks. We learned
that Connect Ohio has decided to switch strategies with their
application for BTOP funds for Expanding Public Computing and now plan
to submit it in the second round of funding.

The reason for their switch is interesting. They have been getting
"insider" information that applications seeking computer hardware will
get precedence over those that do not. Since their Public Computing
program does not seek funds for hardware, they have decided to postpone
it. The good news is that applications from libraries seeking to buy
more computers, and Connect Ohio's other Every Citizen Online
application, should fare well.

What Connect Ohio now proposes to do in regards to training and public
awareness is conduct a pilot program, using their own funds, to refine
and test their program in hopes of submitting a stronger application in
the second round of funding.

What does this mean for the 69 libraries that have sent letters of
support to Connect Ohio?

For the 24 libraries that indicated they were submitting their own
applications to buy computers, you should be receiving a call from
Connect Ohio to discuss how they can support your application, and also
to discuss becoming a site where they can implement their training and
public awareness program.

For libraries that hope to receive free computers through Connect Ohio's
Every Citizen Online program, it looks more likely that their
application for buying computers will be successful, though the number
of computers they can buy may be fewer, depending on their ability to
make the 20% match.

I think this is generally positive news. Certainly it seems to indicate
that putting more computers in public libraries is going to be the
intent of this first round of BTOP Public Computer Center funding.

Stephen

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