If you have been to a public library in the last 10 years, you know that libraries are much more than books. One of our biggest secondary purposes is to facilitate a bridge in the digital divide. We do that in multiple ways, including: technology classes; one-on-one, drop in, or by-appointment digital services; and most commonly by providing ready access to technology and the internet with public computers.  

When we held the recent Internet event in partnership with Southern Ute Shared Services (SUSS) back in September, we were fortunate to meet and start to get to know the kind folks working over there. I mentioned that I had been looking for more ways to partner with them and to my delight, they told me they were actively looking for ways to partner with us, too! Better yet, they had a project in mind; they wanted to help us refresh our public computer workstations! We eagerly agreed to the project, and we are now in the early stages of the actual installation process.   

We would like to profusely thank Southern Ute Shared Services for the valuable partnership! SUSS has provided nine brand-new desktop computers and one laptop for public use, as well as two technicians who are helping with this massive installation. The library has also purchased six new workstations; so, together we are completing a near 100% refresh of the public computers throughout the library. Keep your eyes peeled over the next few weeks as these beautiful workstations gradually become available for public use. 

Here at Ignacio Community Library, we are always looking for new ways to partner with other local nonprofit organizations and for-profit businesses to better serve our community. A huge thanks again to SUSS for the willingness to coordinate and partner with us and we look forward to many more shared projects in the future!