Muncie and Yorktown Public Libraries to Receive State Funds

Errington announces funding for high-speed internet access at libraries

INDIANAPOLIS, IN -  On Thursday the State Budget Committee approved the release of funds to the Muncie Public Library and to the Yorktown-Mount Pleasant Township Public Library to pay for internet access expenses. State Senator Sue Errington (D-Muncie) said the funds, which were appropriated by the General Assembly in 2007, will help local libraries continue to provide internet access to all Hoosiers in safe, public spaces.

“Citizens depend on the local library for such a variety of services. They have become multi-media centers, and for nearly half of the public without internet access at home they may serve as the only access point to get online,” Errington said. “I’m very happy that the Budget Committee has agreed to provide these funds to the Muncie and Yorktown libraries to help provide that service for our residents.”

The Budget Committee approved the release money to fund internet connectivity in 214 Indiana public libraries. The Muncie library was approved to receive $4,292.00 and the Yorktown library was approved for $5,400.00 in state funding. The funds are designated to be used only for access charges.

Beyond access to general news, information and research sources, Hoosiers are also accessing state services online at an increasing rate, including registering motor vehicles and filing unemployment claims. Of particular concern to Errington is the need to make internet access available for needy and elderly Hoosiers who are being pushed to apply for Medicaid, food stamps and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) on computers instead of in face-to-face meetings with case workers.

“I am very concerned that citizens are being asked to find a computer and submit applications for emergency assistance on their own. Low-income citizens and the elderly are populations who are most likely to request public assistance, but they are also the most unlikely to have a computer with internet access at home,” Errington commented. “The libraries have really become a source for much more than books and general information, and internet access is one of those additional resources that they provide.”

For more information on Senator Errington, her legislative agenda or other State Senate business call 1-800-382-9467 or visit www.senatedemocrats.in.gov.

Source: Senate Democrats Press Release

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