Library receives COVID fund to improve technology

COLFAX - Whitman County Library was awarded $94,000 through Whitman County's COVID-19 Nonprofit Relief Program to improve Wi-Fi connectivity and expand access to technology.

"While the library was closed earlier this year, we took heartbreaking calls from people in despair who couldn't access important online services such as Social Security, unemployment services, online classes, and Washington's Health Care Authority," said Shirley Cornelius, Whitman County Library (WCL) Business Manager.

All library branches are now open, but social distancing requirements limit the library's ability to meet the demand for computer and internet access. With grant funds, the library is planning to purchase laptops, web cams, and "hotspots" for every branch to be available for check out with a library card.

They are to support remote meetings and online learning.

Soon each branch will have a new multi-function printer with photocopying capabilities as well as other features.

The biggest improvement will be upgraded Wi-Fi equipment at every branch to allow for better internet access both within the library and from parking around the library.

"We know there's a need for faster, more reliable internet throughout our service area and what's available now is insufficient to meet the current demand. This funding will allow us to install a state of the art Wi-Fi network to offer our patrons exceptional service" said James Morasch, WCL systems administrator.

The library will implement the improvements in phases and plans to have everything installed over the next few months.

The project is supported by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of the Treasury with grant funds administered by the Whitman County Coronavirus Relief Fund through the Washington State Department of Commerce.