Libraries updating

HAYDEN - Community Library Network libraries are receiving new computers and faster, more reliable Internet connections.

As the new computers are being added, existing ones are being upgraded to include newest version of the Windows operating system and Microsoft Office 2010.

New and upgraded computers are already in place at Hayden and Rathdrum. Spirit Lake computers are being added this week. Athol, Pinehurst and Harrison are slated for their upgrades later this spring.

The project is intended to match user experience at Post Falls for consistent delivery of services throughout the district.

After Post Falls Library joined the district late last year, the Community Library Network applied for and received a $70,826 Institute of Library Services grant through the Idaho Commission for Libraries to equalize services.

The grant makes the upgrades possible said Library Director John Hartung.

Bandwidth has been increased at all library locations, translating to faster downloads from the Internet said Hartung. The grant also paid for adding books and materials to the collections at all seven-library outlets plus the mobile library. In addition, it will cover the installation of a new phone system at Post Falls.