(NAFB) A first-of-its-kind program is bringing internet access to rural libraries in Oklahoma, and it could soon be found in other states. Oklahoma Broadband Office Executive Director Mike Sanders says it will bring 175 high-tech portals to local libraries throughout the state, creating new opportunities for rural residents to access essential services closer to home.
“You’ll have the opportunity to have a single portal, which will have all the bells and whistles, the touch screens, the modem, the computer, all this.”
Sanders said the setup is a long way from a standard table with a desktop computer and keyboard. The portals are individual modules that have “smart glass,” featuring polymer-dispersed liquid crystals that can make the glass door appear to be frosted.
“When you go into this particular module, the window or the door will cloud up, so you’ll have privacy.”
He said the portals are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
“For those individuals that need to bring in their wheelchairs, or things along those lines, and have a couple of folks with them, or even perhaps to have a meeting, a private meeting.”
Sanders said the goal of the $14 million initiative is to help rural residents access things like virtual health care, remote job interviews, and workforce development services…tape
Oklahoma Broadband Office Executive Director Mike Sanders says about 80 rural libraries and regional library systems in Oklahoma have expressed interest in the new community internet access portals. The program was made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act Capital Projects Fund.
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Audio provided by Calvin Wright, First Oklahoma Ag, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Audio with Mike Sanders, Executive Director, Oklahoma Broadband Office
