Oklahoma Department of Libraries

PROJECT PURPOSE

Department of Libraries (ODL) submits this request in coordination with all municipal Oklahoma public libraries to fund critical infrastructure updates and construction projects for multipurpose community facilities via sub-grants to public libraries. An estimated $40 million is required to address currently identified needs. Supporting documents outline how this once-in-a -generation opportunity will have transformational impact to numerous qualified census tracts for decades. No federal funds have been available for library capital improvements in more than 25 years. Libraries are specifically mentioned as an exemplary recipient in Treasury guidance for distributing these funds and it?s no surprise why: they are essential to ensuring all Oklahomans, especially those most vulnerable, can overcome impacts from the pandemic to access work, education and health monitoring. There is at least one public library in every Oklahoma county. They have demonstrated expertise in providing high quality Internet and device access for virtual learning, digital skills training, access to telehealth services, job seeker assistance, homework help, assistance accessing and applying for government services, public meeting spaces, and access to trustworthy information. Funding this project will allow Oklahoma libraries to continue to meet the increased demand for critical services only they can provide their communities.

EVIDENCE

Studies demonstrate $1 invested in public libraries yields on average a ROI of $4 to $5 dollars (Aab√∏ 2009). Oklahoma ranked 47th in broadband access in 2018 and only 48% of rural residents have a broadband connection, compared to 74% nationally (Whitacre). Public libraries provide the only access to the Internet and connective devices for many Oklahomans. In a recent ODL survey, all eight Oklahoma library systems and 60 independent libraries reported construction and renovation needs to provide the space, privacy provisions, and infrastructure to initiate and/or enhance services that address health, education, and workforce development.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

The pandemic highlighted the importance of public library services delivered in adequate facilities to vulnerable populations. Here is a striking example: According to the NEA?s Digital Equity report released in September 2020, an estimated 35% of Oklahoma students are without access to both broadband and a computer at home. Oklahoma ranks 46th nationally in the percentage of students with both Internet and a device. 65% of students in Oklahoma lack full access to broadband and devices for school, and only 56% of Hispanic students and 46% of Indigenous students in Oklahoma have access to broadband and a device. According to a report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, public library capital investments cause students to perform better on standardized tests (Gilpin, Karger & Nenka 2021). The pandemic has accelerated the move to digital spaces for work, health, education, and government services. Public libraries are uniquely qualified to bridge the digital divide for students, employees, and individuals monitoring their health. Oklahoma public libraries must plan for and provide the services, resources, and facilities to meet the needs of their communities as this trend continues.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

ODL successfully deploys millions in federal grant funds as the State Library Administrative Agency. Grants management software (GMS) will be used to track sub-grantee applications, performance and required federal grant reporting data. Outcomes will be measured through data collected via the GMS and our annual reporting tool. Data points will include construction progress against established timelines; number of deferred maintenance, new construction and renovation projects completed; programs per age group; Internet sessions; and meeting room use. In addition to the quantitative data from the annual report, a survey tool will collect detailed individual outcomes and stories from the project.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

One-time project will not need continued funding