Libraries of the Future Fund
Change is occurring at a pace never before experienced in our society, and one of the fastest evolving aspects is technology.
It’s hard to keep pace even when you work with technology on a daily basis, so for library patrons the task may be daunting. And new technology brings new opportunities to serve patrons.
Library users want information, and they want it in ways not imagined even a few short years ago. Libraries strive to keep pace with demand, but there is so much more that could be accomplished with additional resources.
Examples of programs that may be supported through this fund include:
- A project to digitize local history photo collections, rare and unique documents, and obituary clipping files in our local libraries to preserve them and also make them searchable and viewable on the Internet.
- A one-year pilot project to provide IT phone help desk assistance to library patrons accessing library services remotely or in the library on their own devices. For example, a patron may ask: “I used my laptop in the library to access your wireless network and now it won’t work at home anymore. What’s wrong?” This is currently an unmet need.
- Enhance distance learning opportunities by funding development of tutorials and education programs to be delivered to staff in libraries.
- Geographic Information Services (GIS) software and training to help libraries map use patterns and demographic and other data to better serve patrons.
- A continuing education program for “Librarians and Electronic Gadgets” to help library staff maintain awareness of consumer technologies. It would buy gadgets for hands-on training programs so staff could support patrons and integrate appropriate technologies into library service.
If you and your family would like to make a major gift to support or endow a Libraries of the Future Fund program, please contact Phyllis Davis, South Central Library System Director, 608 246-7975.
Back to Public Library Enhancement Funds.