Parker Memorial Library, a branch of the Southern Oklahoma Library System

PROJECT PURPOSE

The Multi-Purpose Community Library Project invests in capital assets and technology infrastructure designed to directly enable work, education and health objectives. With the rapid growth of remote work, education and health monitoring, the population of Sulphur Oklahoma and outlying communities will have the opportunity to access resources to find employment, meet with employers for interviews, address health issues including the engagement in telehealth appointments, and increase educational development with tutors and databases.

EVIDENCE

The need for Internet access and basic technology assistance was essential for many of our residents during the COVID-19 health crisis. With the ever-growing list of services and assistance that are only accessible through online application, the Library will continue to play a vital role in bridging the digital divide. The lack of public meeting space in the Parker Memorial Library has been intensified by the COVID-19 public health emergency. 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.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

Located in Murray County Oklahoma, the population of Sulphur, OK is 5,107 and shows a steady growth rate. There is a large deaf community. The poverty rate is 21%, but with breakdown of race it increases to 30.64% for Native American and 100% for Asian. The town of Sulphur has no public transportation which contributes to hardships. Adding meeting room spaces and outdoor space would be of great assistance for those using this Library. The greatest technology issue facing school-aged children and families is equitable access to high-speed broadband Internet. The NEA?s Digital Equity research shows that only 65% of students in Oklahoma have full access to broadband and devices for school. The divide is worse among underserved populations and those living in rural areas such as Sulphur.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

The Southern Oklahoma Library System and Parker Memorial Library have several methods in place to measure project performance. First, statistics will be collected on library door count, meeting room use, Internet connections and program attendance. Because the libraries? Wi-Fi is available 24/7 these statistics can be gathered even after hours as many people continue to use the Internet from the parking lot when the library is closed. Additionally, digital resource use will be collected and documented monthly. Community surveys will be conducted to get input as well.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

One-time project will not need continued funding