WEST DES MOINES – DEKKO Foundation has awarded the Creston Public Library $18,510 for the purchase of technology to create two “discovery and learning centers” within the library.
The special grant request, titled “a little love for libraries,” had a June 1 deadline.
Sue Teutsch, acting director of the library, sought help with researching and writing the grant application from Mandy (Kolesik) Houk of Marketing Kinetics, West Des Moines, and library board president Ann Coulter.
The grant proposal requested funding for developing two discovery and learning centers. Each will focus on integrating technology, interactive discovery and literacy programming.
Each of the two centers will consist of a large LCD TV and 10 iPads. The televisions will be equipped with Apple TV so that up to 10 children or adults can interact with the TV presentation. A MacBook Pro for programming facilitators will be provided for each area. The "Love Your Library" grant also covers literacy software and charging stations for the iPads.
Funds are expected by Sept. 1, with installation before the first of the year.
The discovery and learning centers will allow the library to add new programs for teens and young children.
“This is a great opportunity for us to serve more patrons of all ages, and offer a wide range of new programming, while focusing on the needs of educators and school-aged children.” said David Hargrove, the new library director.
Educators and other mentors will soon be invited to use the centers to improve academic outcomes among Union County K-12 students and school-aged children. More information about training and scheduling will be forthcoming.
The mission of the Creston Public Library is to provide vital information and other services that help area residents of all ages discover, learn and succeed.