Library uses grant money to purchase new technology

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By DENNIS HINES DEKALB - Patrons of the DeKalb Public Library now have access to quicker, more advanced technology. The DeKalb Public Library was one of several area libraries that received a $20,000 Member Initiative Grant from state Rep. Robert Pritchard. Library officials used the funds to purchase 10 Internet computers, four 17-inch computer monitors, five 72-inch computer desks, a 36-inch computer desk for the children’s department, a laptop computer, two laser jet printers, a photo printer and a projector bulb. Patrick Smith, information technology manager, said the library had been planning to purchase the equipment for some time but did not have the necessary funds. “We have an ongoing plan for upgrading and cycling through purchasing new equipment,” Smith said. “They’ve been on the list, but money has been an issue.” Katherine Keyes, public relations coordinator for the DeKalb Public Library, said the library received the grant in July and has purchased the equipment during the past few months. “As soon as we got the money, we started making plans deciding on the equipment that we would purchase,” Keyes said. “We didn’t purchase everything all at once. It was over the few months, between July and now.” Smith said the new Internet computers will allow residents to access more Web sites while visiting the library. “The older computers couldn’t handle a couple of the Web sites. With the newer technology, they’re now able to handle some of those,” Smith said. “Some of those Web sites were using a lot of bandwidth. These are a little bit better, so I think they will appreciate that. They’re a lot quicker. They load faster. We have some of the newer software on there with faster processors and more memory. The programs load faster, and that all leads to less frustration of patrons when they’re waiting to do something.” Keyes said the newer computers also allow patrons to conduct job searches, check their e-mail messages and apply for jobs online. The library also used the grant money to purchase a program that allows patrons to take civil service exams. “We want to make sure people have access to high-speed Internet in this public space, and that can help them find jobs and search out new opportunities,” Keyes said. Smith said many residents use the library’s computers to access the Internet. Patrons may use the Internet computers for an hour each day at no cost, then they are asked to pay a small fee. “I think we have an average of about 2,500 to 3,000 patrons who use our PCs per month,” Smith said. “We have a large volume of patrons. They’re heavily used. If we had the space or more funds, I think the public would receive more Internet computers here in the building, but it’s all a space issue, and, unfortunately, finances.” Smith said some of the older computers were reused as online catalog computers. Keyes said she is pleased that Pritchard donated the grant money to the DeKalb Public Library and the other local libraries. “It was nice to get this money out of the blue and be able to go ahead with our technology plan sooner than we thought,” Keyes said.