A c t i o n f o r L i b r a r i e s — J u l y 2 0 0 2

OCLC to Create Computing Portal
for Public Libraries with Gates Grant

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has awarded OCLC a three-year, $9 million grant to build a Web-based, public-access computing portal for public libraries and other organizations that provide open access to information. The new portal will build on the foundation's five-year-old U.S. Library Program, which by the end of 2003 will have provided computers with Internet access to more than 10,000 U.S. libraries. The portal's goal is to help bring the public widespread access to information technologies.

According to OCLC officials, the portal will be designed to serve public libraries' needs in managing hardware and software, implementing advanced applications, training staff and patrons and delivering digital library services. Content will serve five critical areas: continuing education, technical support, purchasing, capacity building and community building. The portal will host a range of services and tools, such as online tutorials, training modules, Web casting, message boards and expert assistance that will help libraries manage and enhance their programs.

Colorado State Library to Assist
OCLC will work with four partners in building the portal, including the Colorado State Library, a BCR state member. Other OCLC partners in the portal endeavor are the Benton Foundation, Isoph and TechSoup. OCLC cited the four as "collectively bringing the research, evaluation, governance, e-learning and technology skills needed to successfully design, develop and operate the portal."

The Colorado State Library will participate in the development of the portal through its communications with other state libraries and assist in evaluating the portal's program and initiatives.

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OCLC to Create Computing Portal for Public Libraries with Gates Grant

OCLC to Create Computing Portal
for Public Libraries with Gates Grant