The New York State Library, a unit of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department, has received a federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Broadband Technology Opportunity Program (BTOP) award in the Public Computer Center category as part of Round One funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Federal stimulus funding of $9,521,150 and $5,418,370 in matching funds will be used to create public access computer centers in 30 public libraries and 5 E-mobile computer training units. This project will enable public libraries to extend hours, upgrade connectivity, add more than 800 new public computer workstations, and provide access to 24/7 job search resources in 41 economically distressed upstate New York counties. More than 6 million New York residents will be served through this initiative.
BTOP Public Computer Center Criteria and Project Goals:
"The Public Computing Centers, funded and supported under the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP), are designed to bring the fruits of high-speed connectivity to everyone. Many parts of New York State will for the first time be able to experience the bounty of communications and content available online. The Public Computing Centers are a primary outpost for free public access to a wide array of broadband services. As part of a highly effective network, the PCCs and the libraries of which they are a part will continue their critical role as a hub for community life and service." -- Bernard A. Margolis, State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries, August 2010
BTOP Public Computer Center Criteria and Project Goals:
- Increase public access to high speed broadband services in high-need communities
- Serve vulnerable populations (unemployed, underemployed or other vulnerable populations: non-English speakers, seniors, disabled, etc.)
- Provide technical support and other resources to support job search and career advancement through community anchor institutions such as libraries
- Advance the use of E-services for training, employment, digital literacy, and education
- Stimulate employment and provide job opportunities
"The Public Computing Centers, funded and supported under the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP), are designed to bring the fruits of high-speed connectivity to everyone. Many parts of New York State will for the first time be able to experience the bounty of communications and content available online. The Public Computing Centers are a primary outpost for free public access to a wide array of broadband services. As part of a highly effective network, the PCCs and the libraries of which they are a part will continue their critical role as a hub for community life and service." -- Bernard A. Margolis, State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries, August 2010
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