Rep. Robb Blasdel Applauds Federal Library Grants Awarded to Two District 79 Libraries

State Representative Monica Robb Blasdel (R-New Waterford) is pleased to announce that two public libraries in District 79 have been awarded Guiding Ohio Online grants through the State Library of Ohio. During its May meeting, the State Library of Ohio Board approved more than $368,000 in federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding for eighteen public libraries across the state.

The LSTA funding is distributed to the State Library via the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This initiative provides public libraries in Ohio that serve rural communities to employ a dedicated technology trainer, hired as an independent contractor in either a full-time or part-time capacity. Trainers involved in Guiding Ohio Online may provide or assist with computer instruction, technology-focused community outreach, one-on-one tutoring, and various other technology-related tasks.

Over the past decade, the Guiding Ohio Online grant program has proven to be both popular and impactful for rural communities across the state.

The following District 79 libraries were awarded Guiding Ohio Online grants:

• $13,500, Columbiana Public Library, Columbiana County
• $10,143, Salem Public Library, Columbiana County

"Public libraries are one of the most valuable resources we have in our communities, and programs like Guiding Ohio Online ensure that residents in rural areas have access to the technology skills they need to thrive," said Rep. Robb Blasdel. "I am proud to see the Columbiana and Salem Public Libraries recognized with these grants and look forward to the impact their technology trainers will have on District 79 families."

The Guiding Ohio Online grant program is funded through the federal Library Services and Technology Act and administered by the State Library of Ohio. For more information on the program, visit the State Library of Ohio's website.