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Batavia plans app for self-guided tours of windmills

In 2013, the Batavia Public Library published "Batavia Windmills: A Guide to the Historic Windmills of Batavia."

It describes many of the windmills displayed throughout the town, which was once known internationally for its windmill factories.

But soon, you won't have to check that guide out of the library. You will be able to pull up its information on your smartphone or tablet via a city app. It will include a map tied to the city's Geographical Information System.

The library has given the city permission to use the guide's content. Information for a self-guided tour will be at your fingertips when you are standing in front of a windmill, such the U.S. Wind Engine and Co. Model E in front of the former Appleton Windmill Co. (now the Batavia Government Center).

City communications coordinator Christopher Cudworth explained the plan to aldermen at a committee meeting Tuesday night.

It is part of an effort to attract more visitors in a "Destination: Batavia" campaign. He also wants to sell sponsorships for the windmill app, with the money to be used to repair, maintain and obtain windmills.

Alderman Scott Salvati, who owns a marketing firm, suggested the app send push notifications to users, with information about other nearby attractions and amenities, such as stores and restaurants.

The intergovernmental agreement also covers the use of other Batavia historical information produced by the library, including that published on Bataviahistory.org.

The council will vote on the agreement Aug. 6.

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