Aug 9 2010
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration has awarded a $33.4 million grant to build a fiber optic network in the Mark Skinner Library and 52 other libraries across seven Vermont counties.
The network will extend over 770 miles across Caledonia, Washington, Orange, Windsor, Windham, Bennington and Rutland counties. The project will commence on 2011 and is expected to be completed by 2013.
The Vermont Telecommunications Authority, Sovernet and the Vermont Department of Libraries had applied for the grant. The fiber optic network will improve the current network speed and will enable libraries to provide enhanced features such as live chats, downloading audiobooks, video conferencing and Webinars.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has also awarded a grant to the Vermont Department of Libraries to fund parts of the project. In addition to the federal and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation grants, the Vermont Department of Libraries will also receive additional funds to maintain the broadband cost.
Ellen Boyer, Director of the Mark Skinner Library, stated that the library had received the federal grant three weeks back. The renovation plans may include a computer laboratory or the number of computers in the library will be increased, Boyer said.
Martha Reid, State Librarian at the Vermont Department of Libraries, stated that the goal of the grant is to develop a fiber optic network that will benefit the Vermont counties.