Westbrook Foundation Helps Library Meet Technological Needs

WESTBROOK - While libraries struggle to have the latest technology available for their patrons, Librarian Lou Daniels at the Westbrook Public Library said the Westbrook Foundation has "principally been responsible for the computer equipment for the public and we are very grateful for their support."

Pointing to eight desktop computers with flat screen monitors and eight inkjet printers sitting on eight computer workstations, Daniels said a $15,096 grant in November 2004 made this technology possible.

A wireless fidelity network was created using foundation funds allowing patrons to bring their laptop computers and access the Internet throughout the library and its grounds.

Daniels said Westbrook Foundation's latest grant of $14,460 allowed the purchase of four more desktop computers with flat screen monitors and four inkjet printers.

"The computers placed four old Dell's and one Mac," Daniels said.

The foundation dramatically increased the number of computers available to patrons, Daniels said.

"Computers are a basic service people expect in a library and act as a gateway for information," Daniels said, adding some patrons turn to the library when their computers at home malfunction.

When patrons use the computers, they register with staff members who compile statistics on the number of times the library computers are used.

The average count of uses between January 2006 and November 2006 was 739.

To assist staff, Daniels said, the Westbrook Foundation generously gave funds to the library for four laptop computers which have proved beneficial for giving presentations, working in areas where there is little desk room, and will be used when the library moves into its temporary location while its current facility is under construction.

The $4.2 million project residents overwhelmingly approved on November 30 paves the way for a complete renovation of the current 11,760 square foot facility and surrounding grounds and will create a 7,328 square foot addition.