August 25, 2008
BCR, Three States Partner to Administer Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Grant
BCR has been selected to serve as intermediary to administer and manage round two of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Opportunity Online grants for three of its member state library agencies. The grants will help eligible public libraries in Alaska, Oregon and Washington upgrade computer hardware in communities with high concentrations of poverty that are at risk of having outdated technology.
BCR President and CEO Brenda Bailey-Hainer said, "I'm delighted that BCR can assist libraries with obtaining funding that will help them upgrade their computers. For many people the local public library is often the only place they can use the Internet, and it's important that libraries be able to maintain this important role in their communities."
Twenty-eight libraries in Alaska, 106 in Oregon and 87 in Washington have been designated recipients of the grants. Eligible libraries must obtain local funding commitments that demonstrate community support for maintaining computer upgrades.
Librarians participating in the program also are required to attend a professional development conference focused on advocacy, to help them build the skills and confidence they need to raise awareness about the value of their libraries and increase local support.
BCR also managed the initial round of grant funding announced last fall for the Colorado State Library and the State Library of Kansas, and served as the fiduciary agent for the State Library of Iowa.
For more information, please see the BCR press release. Visit the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Opportunity Online grants to learn more.
