The Web on Wheels (WoW) Bus Showcased During Librarian Conference in Bozeman
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 21, 2011
Contact: Sara Groves
(406) 444-5357
(HELENA) -- Sure, the word Wow! might be painted on the side, but in spite of that, the RV could easily be mistaken as just another giant tour bus making its way around our beautiful state. But if you take a closer look or - better yet - step inside, you'll find the newest addition to the Missoula Public Library family: the Web on Wheels (WoW) Bus, a new branch of the Missoula Public Library that will roam Missoula County bringing library services to patrons in rural communities.
The WoW is equipped with eight computer workstations, one of which is ADA accessible. Additionally, the WoW will provide vital Internet resources to communities with little access to broadband. County residents will be able to use the bus to more easily find jobs online, to complete homework, to enroll in public benefits, and to seek legal advice.
The WoW is being showcased in Bozeman on Friday, September 23, 2011 during an annual training conference for the state's librarians. On Friday, September 23, 2011, the WOW will be parked at the Bozeman Public Library and will be open to the public to tour from noon - 5 p.m.
"We're bringing the WoW to Bozeman so that our peers across the state can see one of the innovative ways that we're trying to provide library patrons with the services they want and need," said Honore Bray, Library Director at the Missoula Public Library. "People need access to the Internet to do everything from applying for public benefits to finding a job to completing homework assignments. For some folks, the WoW will provide a vital link to services they desperately need."
"In a state that is as rural as Montana, librarians are trying to meet the ever-changing demands of our users through top-notch and innovative library service," said Donci Bardash, Project Director at the Montana State Library. "The grant that funded the WoW is definitely making a difference in the lives of our state's most rural citizens by providing them with access to online information and resources that are vital in today's world."
The WoW is funded with support from a Recovery Act grant that is managed by the Montana State Library. The grant is designed to expand broadband capacity, computer access, and training in many of Montana's public libraries.
Besides the WoW, the Recovery Act grant is also providing libraries across the state with new computers, faster connections, and computer training on a wide variety of topics. Some libraries that received funding through the grant were able to hire additional staff that are entirely focused on technology assistance for patrons. The WoW, for instance, is staffed by a reference librarian and a circulation clerk that will help library patrons navigate the web and learn basic technology skills.
The grant's reach is extended through partnerships with state agencies and various organizations, including the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, the Department of Labor and Industry - Workforce Services Division, the Montana Digital Academy, Montana Legal Services, and Montana AARP.
"Partnering with public libraries is vital in making sure that Montanans have access to the new online public assistance application, Montana Connections," states Anna Whiting Sorrell, Director of the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. "Our agency made a commitment to simplify the public assistance enrollment process, and we appreciate the assistance librarians across the state provide to Montanans in navigating our new e-form."
Roughly 40% of patrons using library computer are searching for a job or improving their professional job skills; 30% pay bills and manages their finances; 15% complete homework or participate in on-line courses; 15% seek medical advice.
Additional services of the WOW Missoula public library branch include technology training and workshops; the ability to deliver and hold items; notary services; and passport applications. For more information on the WoW, please contact Sara Groves at (406) 431-0685 or by email at: sgroves@mt.gov.
About the Montana State Library
Through its statewide programs, the Montana State Library empowers Montanans; enhances learning in families and communities; builds 21st Century skills; and provides opportunities for civic participation. For more information, visit http://msl.mt.gov.
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