Neponset Public Library receives national grant for small and rural libraries

NEPONSET — Neponset Public Library has been selected as one of 300 libraries to participate in Libraries Transforming Communities: Focus on Small and Rural Libraries, an American Library Association (ALA) initiative that helps library workers better serve their small and rural communities.

The competitive award comes with a $3,000 grant that will help the library to better understand community technological needs and purchase equipment to help meet those needs. The worldwide global COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in the use of digital technologies. We rely more on computers and internet for work, school, appointments and keeping in touch with family. The library would like to make more resources available to accommodate community needs. Possibilities may include but not limited to acquiring additional computer workstations for public use, new software programs, Zoom subscription and quality Wi-Fi internet (expansion of Wi-Fi capabilities, hotspots).

The overall goal is to enhance the library’s technological resources based on the community’s needs. These additional resources will help the community meet the challenges as they work through this together.

“We are so proud to be chosen for this amazing opportunity,” said Library Director Carissa Faber. “This grant will allow our library to get to know our residents better and help us build a happier and healthier community for our families.”

As part of the grant, Neponset Public Library staff has taken an online course in how to lead conversations, a skill vital to library work today. Staff will then host a conversation with residents about technological needs and use the grant funds to purchase equipment needed.

If you are interested in getting involved or taking part in the conversation, please contact Carissa Faber at 309-594-2204 or visit www.neponsetlibrary.org for more information.

Since 2014, ALA’s Libraries Transforming Communities initiative has re-imagined the role libraries play in supporting communities. Libraries of all types have utilized free dialogue and deliberation training and resources to lead community and campus forums; take part in anti-violence activities; provide a space for residents to come together and discuss challenging topics; and have productive conversations with civic leaders, library trustees and staff.

Libraries Transforming Communities: Focus on Small and Rural Libraries is an initiative of the American Library Association (ALA) in collaboration with the Association for Rural and Small Libraries (ARSL).