Macon community benefitting from tech upgrades at Macon library
Douglas Mayes visits the Washington Memorial Library several days a week, researching other cities in which to live and checking his e-mail. An unemployed musician and restaurant worker, Mayes said he can’t afford Internet service at his home. So the bes
Douglas Mayes visits the Washington Memorial Library several days a week, researching other cities in which to live and checking his e-mail.
An unemployed musician and restaurant worker, Mayes said he can’t afford Internet service at his home. So the best option for him is a trek to the library to use the computers and wireless Internet the library has for its patrons.
“I’ve been out of work,” he said. “(The computers) have been great. I’m so happy they got all this new equipment.”
Nearly a year ago, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation awarded a $500,000 grant to the Middle Georgia Regional Library System to buy or upgrade computer equipment as part of the foundation’s digital technology initiative for the communities it serves. The grant was matched locally by Bibb County.
Not only has the grant allowed the library to purchase 85 new desktop and laptop computers, but it has also helped refurbish the building to set up a separate computer lab as well as to hold classes that provide basic computer instruction for people who have never had training.
About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities and foster the arts. We believe that democracy thrives when people and communities are informed and engaged. For more, visit www.knightfoundation.org.