WebJunction

The Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records has supported a number of wireless projects for public libraries in the state through its federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds in the last several years. 

Maricopa County Library District was the first library to request LSTA support for a wireless project.  The library district’s “Have Laptops, Will Travel” project created two portable computer labs each equipped with eight wireless laptop computers that are used to teach basic computer skills to senior adults. The project also aimed to develop course curriculum, handouts, and a team of senior adult volunteers to teach the classes. A primary goal was to provide to senior adults access to all online information through the Library District’s Web site who otherwise would not have the computer skills to access information on their own.

Following Maricopa County’s lead, both Navajo and Pinal county library districts were awarded LSTA grants for portable computer labs to allow them to move the lab to various libraries within the county.  Navajo County Library District’s “Enhancing Computer Training Through a Portable Computer Lab” allows libraries to provide hands-on group instruction in basic computer use, internet searching, and library online databases.   Pinal County Library District’s “Portable Computer Lab” is used to improve the technical skills of affiliate library staff and volunteers through hands-on computer training sessions, and to provide classes to the public.

Prescott Public Library received funding for “Prescott Hot Zone.” The library proposed to make laptops available for in-library check out when all public workstations are busy, and to add wireless throughout the building and grounds.  The mobile workstations are also available to small groups.  Neighboring Prescott Valley Public Library recently received an award for “Project Mobile,” wireless internet access and a computer lab.  Both of these communities are outside of major metropolitan areas, and will offer one of the few public wireless access points in their communities.  Peoria Public Library, located in the Phoenix metropolitan area, was recently funded for “Why Not Wi-Fi” to provide wireless access and laptops at the Main Library.

Two libraries recently received awards for targeted laptop access to a specific population.  Glendale Public Library’s Velma Teague Branch Library’s “Computer Training for Teens” will provide wireless access and laptops to support a teen program.  Parker Public Library’s “Life Changes: The Future is Now!” will provide a wireless mobile computer lab for use by seniors in computer-training and consumer health classes.  Space for additional computers was a consideration for both of these libraries, and wireless laptop labs allow for greater flexibility.

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