Love County Library, a branch of 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 Marietta 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

Love County Library is the only library in the entire county which serves many surrounding rural communities who rely on public library services. According to the NEA?s Digital Equity report, 40% of students in Love County are without access to both broadband and a computer (referred to as full access). While the Census Bureau reports 16.2% of residents are Hispanic or Latino, the Marietta Public Schools is located across the street from the library and reports a student population that is 40.2% Hispanic. Another hardship is there is no public transportation to those living in Love County.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

The need for Internet access and basic technology assistance was critical 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 Love County communities has been intensified by the COVID-19 public health emergency. The Love County Library building currently occupies 3,600 square feet with very limited private meeting space. With the rapid growth of remote work, education and health monitoring, our current building has hindered our ability to adequately accommodate the in-person and virtual meeting needs of small businesses, educators, and health care providers. Many living in Love County are recent immigrants and some are undocumented. On a national level, Oklahoma ranks 46th in the percentage of students with both Internet and a device. As the primary location in the community providing free broadband Internet and devices, the Library can help bridge that gap for students, employees, and individuals monitoring their health.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

To measure project performance, statistics will be collected on library door count, meeting room use, Internet connections and program attendance. Because the library?s Wi-Fi is available 24/7, these statistics can be gathered after hours as many people continue to use library services even when the library is closed. Additional statistics will be gathered from database use and use of telehealth pods. Surveys will be distributed to those using facility for additional input.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

One-time project will not need continued funding