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G2S Project Code: 2015-AL-75315
State: Alabama
Fiscal Year: 2015
Grantee
Alabama Public Library Service

Project Director
Director Name: Nancy C. Pack
Director Phone: (334) 213-3902
Director Email: npack@apls.state.al.us
General Information
Title: Technology (St. Clair County Library)
State Project Code:
Start Date: 10/01/2015
End Date: 09/30/2016
Abstract: Library Technology grants were issued to the St. Clair County Library to update their technological services to their community and member libraries in Ashville and Steele.   St. Clair County is located in northeast Alabama.  The population served by these libraries is 34,600.  Funds were used to upgrade equipment and software.
State Goal: Goal 3. Support access to information, knowledge, ideas and cultural heritage through the provision of library materials in all formats and through the provision of up-to-date technology.
Budget Information
LSTA
MATCH-State
MATCH-Other
Total
$30,000.00
$0.00
$7,500.00
$37,500.00
Intent(s)
Improve library's physical and technology infrastructure.
Systems & Technologies
Activities
Activity Details
Title: Equipment Upgrade
Narrative: 10 Lenovo ThinkCentre workstations, one HP laptop, two laser printers, one server, and software were purchased and installed.

Intent: Improve library's physical and technology infrastructure.

Activity: Procurement
Mode:
Format:


Quantity


Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: Yes
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No


Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No


Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: No
For a targeted group or for the general population: General


Locale
Is the activity state-wide: No
Specific Locations: Yes
Name: ASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Address: 196 SIXTH AVENUE
City: ASHVILLE
State: AL
Zip: 35953
Name: ST. CLAIR COUNTY LIBRARY
Address: 139 5TH AVENUE
City: ASHVILLE
State: AL
Zip: 35953
Name: STEELE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Address: 78 HILLVIEW STREET
City: STEELE
State: AL
Zip: 35987
Project Outcomes
Project Outcomes
List any important findings or outcomes from your project:
The addition of high-speed, reliable computers has drastically reduced the down time and has helped alleviate or in some cases eliminate the wait times for patrons to use the computers. The libraries are located in areas that have experienced a loss of revenue due to business closings, etc. Many residents had to cancel their home Internet access due to trying to save money. The libraries' are providing this essential access to their communities as residents are looking for employment.
Please briefly describe importance of findings:
Patron computer complaints are few and far between now since the computers have been upgraded. The library's fax and copy services are much faster and more efficient. Patrons are much happier with the new equipment and computer usage statistics have increased on a consistent basis.
What methods did you use to determine your findings? Check all that apply:
Review of Administrative Data
Participant Observation
Based on outputs, outcomes and/or other results, explain any significant lessons learned from these findings for either the SLAA or others in the LIS field:
Based on the high usage of the new equipment by patrons, it is apparent that the libraries' were aware of what their community needs are and are actively trying to meet them. These libraries are lifelines in their communities and provide not only direct services but also gathering places for residents to use.
Do you anticipate continuing this project after the current reporting period ends:
Yes
Do you anticipate any change in level of effort:
Yes: Since this type of major upgrade will not be necessary on a routine basis, the library will be able to keep up with an upgrade schedule as need arises. LSTA and local funds are required for this type of technology maintenance.
Do you anticipate any change in the project's scope:
No
Do you anticipate any other changes in the project:
No
Exemplary: No
Exemplary Narrative
Project Tags: Equipment, Internet