Delaware County Libraries has been awarded Federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), available through the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL). The purpose of these funds is to support the long-term work of the community and library recovery in Pennsylvania.
Through the ARP-IMLS Grant, Delaware County Libraries (DCL) will replace 97 computers used across its 28 member library locations for accessing its Integrated Library System (ILS). The ILS is the backbone of many core library services like checking materials in and out, renewing items, and placing holds. In the average year, staff executes nearly 4,000,000 transactions within the ILS, making these machines the true workhorses of the system. These computers were last replaced more than 8 years ago, making the current models past their anticipated usefulness. Upgraded ILS computers will enhance accessibility for people with disabilities, allowing for ADA-accommodations as needed. This will include features like screen magnification, high contrast, color filters and more. Additionally, upgraded ILS computers will directly impact users of all libraries with more reliable and quicker circulation transactions. At its May 18, 2022 meeting, County Council voted to approve the purchase of the computers.
“We are grateful to be receiving these funds which will enable us to purchase new ILS computers,” said Anny Laepple, Assistant Director of Delaware County Libraries. “They will help us to better and more efficiently serve our patrons and our community.”
This project is made possible in part by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Office of Commonwealth Libraries.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is the primary source of federal support for the nation's approximately 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Their mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Their grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Delaware County Libraries is an agency of county government that provides support services for 26 independent member libraries. For information about the wide range of library services available to all county residents, visit www.delcolibraries.org. Find More | Do More with the DelcoReads mobile app.
