This spring, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation donated 88 computers to libraries in Kent County, Sussex County, Wilmington, and Newark that met the Gates Foundation's income and poverty guidelines. Subsequently, the governor announced the purchase of 144 additional "Gates Computers" for libraries in Kent County, Sussex County, and Wilmington under a matching grant program developed by the State Library.
Minner also announced a $100,000 matching grant to New Castle County to support its purchase of replacement computers. Earlier this year, under the leadership of county executive Tom Gordon, New Castle County began replacing every computer in its library system.
"Libraries have become the bridge over the digital divide -- ensuring that all citizens have access to high-speed internet, e-commerce and other services. Yet, too many of our libraries are using obsolete computers," Minner said. "These purchases and donations -- which result from a combination of state, county, local library and charitable resources -- will mean that every library computer in Delaware will be state-of-the-art by the end of this year. That is truly remarkable and must make Delaware a leader in the country when it comes to library technology."
The computers feature a full suite of multi-lingual productivity tools including word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, website design, email, photo editing, and publishing software. The machines also feature educational software tools such as an online updateable encyclopedia and the Magic School Bus learning series.
Gov. Minner also announced the launch of a project to increase the availability of assistive technology services for library users with disabilities. Special computer equipment will be used to magnify text, convert text to Braille, and even convert text and hyperlinks into a computer-generated voice. This demonstration project will help public libraries, library patrons, and caregivers to determine which devices will be most effective in meeting the needs of their communities and their customers.
An additional pilot project offers a real-time online reference service in which students and others can get answers from a Delaware reference librarian. "Answer Online" is currently in its pilot phase and is available seven days a week from 3 to 8 p.m.
The three initiatives are part of the Statewide Library Technology Plan called for by the Governor in 2001 and completed in October 2002.
"Taken together, our state and local investments in truly state-of-the-art library computers, our commitment to assistive library technology for those with disabilities, and our efforts to provide online reference services are a giant leap forward in delivering library services to our citizens," Minner said.
