More than $50,000 in Tennessee State Library & Archives grants were awarded to libraries in communities surrounding Chattanooga, according to a statement released today.
The funds went to 19 area public libraries, including facilities in Crossville, Spring City, Cleveland, Coalmont, Tullahoma, Manchester, Ooltewah, Athens, Englewood, Etowah, Winchester, Murfreesboro, Madisonville, Monteagle, Niota, Whitwell, Sweetwater, Tellico Plains and Vonore.
A total of 114 libraries across the state divvied up $305,500 in grants ranging from $350 to $15,000, officials said.
The grants, which are distributed annually, are funded by Tennessee state government and a federal agency, the Institute of Museum and Library Services. In order to qualify, recipients must have dollar-for-dollar matching funds from their local governments.
The grants are used for the purchase of desktop and laptop computers, as well as other electronic equipment that library users and staff members may need.
"In the age in which we live, libraries have become much more than places where people can check out books," Secretary of State Tre Hargett said. "Libraries are often an essential stop for people who don't have access to computers at home or at work. Libraries are often where people go to search for jobs, apply for unemployment benefits or get online training that helps them enhance their professional skills. I am proud that the Library & Archives has a role in providing funding that helps people get computer access."
$50,000 in tech grants awarded to Chattanooga region libraries
January 18, 2017 at 12:40 p.m. | Updated January 18, 2017 at 7:52 p.m.