Press Releases

SEATTLE -- The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation today committed nearly $3.4 million in grants to bolster Internet connections for libraries in five states. It also announced partnerships with 14 additional states to help public libraries compete for federal broadband stimulus funds. Nationally, libraries report that patron demand for high-speed Internet access is growing faster than their ability to provide increased bandwidth. A recent American Library Association study reports that 60 percent of all libraries say their current Internet speed is insufficient.
Link to Press Release

Margarita Dominguez of the Hill County Telephone Coop leads a table discussion on sustainable broadband and the role of emerging technology. She is joined by (L to R) Merla Watson, Library Director, Dickens County Spur Public Library; and Joyce Howze, Spur Main Street Program.

SAN ANTONIO - The Texas State Library and Archives Commission assembled more than 270 public library leaders, community supporters, broadband providers, and local and state leaders for Texas’ second Opportunity Online Broadband Summit on November 18 -19, 2009, in San Antonio, to discuss how to improve and sustain high speed Internet access in the Texas public libraries. (Click for Complete Press Release)

SAN ANTONIO - The Texas State Library and Archives Commission assembled nearly 200 public library leaders, community supporters, broadband providers, and local and state leaders for the Texas Opportunity Online Broadband Summit, on Thursday, October 8, 2009, in San Antonio, to discuss how to improve and sustain high quality Internet access in the Texas public libraries. The Texas Opportunity Online Broadband Summit provides an opportunity to understand the value of community partnerships and the possibilities of technology as well as in-depth discussion about possible connectivity solutions and next steps necessary to reach improved connectivity speed. (Click for complete press release)

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
SEATTLE -- A pilot initiative announced today by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will help public libraries in seven states secure faster Internet connections so more people can access a full range of online applications and opportunities.