Libraries Without Walls (LWW) Grants

A portion of CARES Act funding was awarded to libraries for the deployment of pre-configured Chromebooks to create or expand a device lending program. Chromebooks were divided up according to the RPLAC formula (like Lib Tech allocations) and drop shipped with white-glove service to the awarded libraries. White-glove service included pre-enrolling, updating, checking for DOA status, and placing devices in library system's Chrome management group. The intention of this grant was to provide long-term device loans with priority lending given to to K-12, university, and technical college students. Applications were evaluated based on impact, need, and readiness.

Total Funding Awarded: 501 devices totaling $128,757.00 

A portion of CARES Act funding and state technology funding was awarded to assist libraries that needed a little extra funding for technology innovations to improve library services in a meaningful way. Lib Tech funding covered devices and other allowable items under the program, while charges for installation and other un-allowable items were covered by CARES funding allowing for the complete project to be funded. The intention of this grant was to fund projects where the technology enabled libraries to impact their communities during the pandemic.  Applications were evaluated based on creativity, impact, and compliance. Possible projects were:

• • devices to checkout to patrons

  • converting public access machines to Chrome devices

  • replacing old servers to improve service to patrons

  • upgrading access points to increase Wi-Fi range and strength

  • devices to track wireless statistics

  • mobile hotspots with plans included through September 2021

Total Funding Awarded: 10 awards totaling $186,200.59 

A portion of CARES Act funding was awarded to libraries for the deployment of TV White Space (TVWS) and other Wi-Fi expansion technologies in their communities. The intent of this grant was to assist libraries with extending Wi-Fi service beyond library buildings to narrow the digital divide for patrons, especially students. Applications were evaluated based on impact, need, and viability. Possible projects were:

• Line of Sight Wi-Fi devices to strengthen service

• Mesh networks to provide coverage over a large area

• TVWS to expand coverage beyond the library building

• External access points/equipment on building

• Internal access points upgrade

Total Funding Awarded:  6 awards totaling $56,652.90  

A portion of CARES Act funding was awarded to migrate the remaining library systems in Georgia to G Suite. This grant funded the necessary cost increase to migrate all interested systems by covering the pro-rated cost for 2020 and the full annual cost of 2021.

• 50 domains (48 systems) have been migrated to the GPLS-managed G Suite environment

• 6 systems host their own G Suite instance

• 4 systems host their own email/cloud service

• 5 additional systems have shown interest in migrating to G Suite

• 5 new systems have already been migrated

Total Funding Awarded: $25,000

A portion of CARES Act funding was awarded to libraries for the deployment of broadband infrastructure upgrades. The intention of these grants was to bring all libraries in Georgia up to a standard baseline of Wi-Fi availability and Wi-Fi statistics gathering. These grants reimbursed the non-discounted portion of the E-rate Category 2 (CAT 2) costs not funded by USAC. Possible projects were:

• Internal Connections (such as access points, routers, switches, hubs, and wiring)

• Managed Internal Broadband Services (operation, management, and monitoring of eligible broadband internal connections by a third party)

• Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections (eligible repair and upkeep services include hardware, wiring, and cable maintenance, along with basic technical support and configuration changes for eligible products)

Total Funding Awarded:  8 award totaling $31,864.68