TULSA CITY-COUNTY LIBRARY

PROJECT PURPOSE

The purpose of this request is to fund critical infrastructure updates and construction projects for multipurpose community facilities. An estimated $45 million is required to address currently identified needs. Supporting documents outline how this once-in-a-generation opportunity will have a transformational impact on numerous qualified census tracts for decades. Libraries are specifically mentioned as an exemplary recipients in Treasury guidance for distributing these funds and it?s no surprise why: they are essential to ensuring all citizens, especially those most vulnerable, can overcome impacts from the pandemic to access work, education, and health monitoring. TCCL has 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 us to continue to meet the increased demand for critical services.

EVIDENCE

Studies demonstrate $1 invested in public libraries yields on average an 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. Those who are fortunate to have access may not have reliable access as one customer shared, ?Our low-cost cellular provider reliability doesn?t allow us to surf the web. Thank you for offering free parking lot wi-fi. My child often says, Mom, time to go to the library. Here, we can place grocery orders and drive-thru meal orders while maintaining our low-cost cellular provider. Thank you!? Statics show that domestic violence increased throughout the pandemic. One customer notes the importance of accessing the library?s computers. She stated, ?The library has provided life-saving assistance for my family as I try to protect us from domestic violence. The library allows me to access websites my abuser would see at home, inexpensively print what I need for court, and identify resources to keep us safe. Wholeheartedly, thank you for this safe place rich with affordable resources.? 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

The Tulsa City-County Library has several processes in place to measure project performance and programmatic data. We will use an integrated ERP system to manage ARPA funds. This will allow us to track and provide budget comparisons, project-to-date, and year-to-year comparisons. TCCL will also convene a Construction Oversight Committee to monitor the following: Execution of Construction Contracts for the Project in accordance with the Oklahoma Competitive Bidding Act, approval and execution of change orders, and construction change addenda related to the Project, approval and execution of such other documents or certificates as may be necessary or desirable to effectuate the transactions contemplated by the project

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

One-time project will not need continued funding