February 27, 2006	Volume 5, Number 6

Federal library grants support library services

Libraries throughout the state will conduct projects to improve literacy, preserve historical documents, and improve library automation systems to better serve library patrons this year, sharing $3.1 million in federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grants.

“Our libraries are strong partners in economic development and improving the quality of life in our state. By focusing on adult, family, and early literacy, they contribute to better education and employability for our citizens,” said State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster.

Grants that support technology improvements represented the largest allocation of LSTA funds. Since March, 2003, all Wisconsin public libraries offer Internet access, and most of the state’s 387 public libraries have high-speed access. Additionally, libraries used LSTA funds to enhance resource sharing throughout the state. This investment resulted in a 17 percent increase the number of items libraries shared between 2003 to 2004, totaling 4.8 million items in 2004.

Libraries planned a variety of other projects, including those that provide services for senior citizens and others with disabilities; help library patrons use the library in another language; and encourage digitization of library materials of unique or special interest, such as local history, plat books, and old photographs. These digitized materials will be made available on-line through the University of Wisconsin-Madison Library’s State of Wisconsin Collection.

“Through these grants, our libraries are strengthening resources and services that help fulfill their mission for the citizens of Wisconsin,” Burmaster said. “Public libraries are our statewide knowledge network, ensuring that all the people of Wisconsin have the broadest possible access to the information resources and materials they need for lifelong learning.”

The Department of Public Instruction Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning administers Wisconsin’s yearly LSTA allocation through the Institute of Museum and Library Services, a federal agency responsible for strengthening museums and libraries. The Wisconsin 2005 LSTA Advisory Committee reviewed all grant applications and made recommendations on grant awards for projects to take place from January through December 2006.

A list of Library Services and Technology Act grant awards for 2006 follows the complete press release.

Last updated on 2/27/2006