Carson City takes steps into high-tech future

Nevada libraries have been awarded $1.1 million in federal stimulus funds for public computing centers, and Carson City has received a good chunk of that money, plus some - nearly $600,000.

For the Carson City Library over the next three years, that means 105 new computers will be added for public use, said Library Director Sara Jones.

Additionally, SmartBoards, laptops, audio/visual and teleconferencing equipment will be added to the library's two meeting room spaces.

Two full-time positions, a business-focused research librarian and an IT training/coaching/maintenance position also will be funded by the grant, she said.

The Nevada "One Click Away" project, which sponsored the grant application, is a partnership between the State Library and Archives, Cooperative Libraries Automated Network, Carson City Library and Henderson District Public Libraries.

Privately donated matching funds were needed for funding eligibility, and for Carson City's portion of the request, the Hop and Mae Adams Foundation provided a 27.2 percent cash match commitment of $162,658. Added to the $434,341 award, it brought the total to $596,999, with all funds to be spent by 2013.

No money will be coming from the city's general fund or any other local public funding source, Jones said.

Steve Neighbors, trustee for the Hop and Mae Adams Foundation, said the grant match was a perfect opportunity to help the youth of Carson City.

"Whether a new library becomes a part of a redeveloped downtown or not, the Carson City Library's value to the community as a resource for the youth is invaluable," Neighbors said.

"We understand this is as much about today's needs as it is tomorrow's opportunities, and we are committed to helping bridge the great digital divide that exists (for youth) in Carson City."