Your news: Walmart presents $5,000 to library for South Branch computer training lab
The Mount Prospect Public Library's board of trustees was presented with a $5,000 donation from Walmart by Hilda Rivera, assistant manager at the Mount Prospect Walmart. The money will be used to help establish a much-needed computer training lab at the library's South Branch, 1711 West Algonquin Road.
A study recently published by the University of Washington reported that the library's role as a technology resource and training center has exploded since 1996.
"The library plays a crucial role in bridging the technology gap for low-income families who need reliable access to the Internet and the knowledge to navigate it," commented Marilyn Genther, executive director of the library.
The ability to use a computer is essential in today's work environment. E-mail, job applications, time clocks, training and more are everyday job tasks conducted on a computer, and can be daunting to those who have never had the opportunity to use one.
"We currently teach computer classes at the main branch of the library, but residents near the South Branch have transportation issues which prevent them from taking advantage of these classes," added Genther. The South Branch is located in the Community Connections Center and the library plans to use the shared community room to teach the classes to residents who live within walking distance of the branch.
Walmart has been a strong supporter of projects that benefit the communities in which its stores are located. "In all of our giving efforts, we strive to meet the unmet needs of underserved populations and support organizations that give individuals access to a better life," noted Keith Richards, store manager for the Mount Prospect Walmart. The $5,000 kicked off the library's campaign to raise the $20,000 necessary to purchase computers, bandwith, curriculum materials and instructor fees to make the training lab a reality. For information, (847) 253-5675.
With a collection comprised of approximately 497,000 items, and annual circulation of 1 million, Mount Prospect Public Library supports residents as they explore their interests. Its professional staff serves 61,000 registered cardholders through a wide range of services, programs, and materials designed to meet the personal needs of every member of the community.
The South Branch, located at 1711 West Algonquin Road, opened in August, 2009, as part of the Community Connections Center. The South Branch of the Mount Prospect Public Library is an easily accessible, neighborhood library offering books, movies, computer access, homework and reading help, information, and programs in a wide range of languages to the residents and businesses located near the Community Connections Center.
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