Library to purchase new computers with grant

The New Jersey State Library recently announced the Long Branch Free Public Library on Broadway is one of 30 recipients awarded a Gates Staying Connected Grant.

The state library is awarding a total of $164,500 in grants to New Jersey libraries to help maintain the public access to the internet, according to a press release from the Long Branch library.

Long Branch received a grant in the amount of $5,300 to buy four internet replacement computers. The library currently provides 31 public internet computers at both its Broadway and Elberon locations.

The grant will be used to replace four dates and obsolete public computers located in the reference area at the Broadway library, according to the release.

"Helping to span the digital divide that threatens to isolate some communities is one role that the State Library can play," said State Librarian Norma E. Blake in the release.

The funds were awarded to the library under a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Staying Grant. The foundation tries to ensure that all people have access to a great education and to technology in public libraries, according to the release.

"We are glad to have this money from the Gates Foundation to assist public libraries in giving internet access to all New Jersey residents," Blake said.

For more information call the Long Branch library at (732) 222-3900 or visit www.lmxac.org/longbranch.