McNeill announces nearly $2,800 in funding to Coplay Library for technology and internet services
Rep. Jeanne McNeill October 8, 2021 | 2:03 PM
State Rep. Jeanne McNeill announced today that a total of $2,753 was awarded to the Coplay Library for internet services and digital equipment.
McNeill, D-Lehigh, said the money was awarded via the FCC’s Emergency Connectivity Fund, considered the largest effort in the nation’s history to help libraries offer patrons internet connectivity and digital devices to continue learning at home. The program also helps ensure school-aged children have access to the digital technology and important educational resources they need for the school year.
“So much of what we do, we do online,” McNeill said. “And sadly, there are many individuals who don’t have technology or access to technology readily available. That’s why it’s important these types of investments are made here in the Lehigh Valley and across the commonwealth. We must take every opportunity we can to bridge the digital divide and prepare every Pennsylvanian to compete in today’s modern world.”
According to McNeill, 126 applicants, including 86 school districts and, 29 schools and 11 libraries, were awarded $20.5 million. Of the total, $15.7 million will be used for equipment and $4.9 million will be directed to securing internet service. Additional funding from the first and second ECF application cycles will be released weekly until all applications have been reviewed.
Applications for the second round of this program are being accepted until Wednesday, Oct. 13. During the application filing window, eligible schools, libraries and consortia of eligible schools and libraries, can submit requests for funding to purchase eligible equipment and services between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022. Those who applied for the first round and have additional unmet needs are eligible to reapply.
More about the awards can be found here.