Questions?  

Karen Egan, ISL
kegan [at] ilsos.net
or call 1-800-665-5576 ext. 1
and ask for Pat, Jeanne, Mark or Karen
 

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Opportunity Online Grant Program  
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The Opportunity Online Hardware Grant Program is a grant initiative sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to help public libraries and their communities build long-term capacity for supporting free computer and Internet access in public libraries.   This initiative focuses on libraries that are not yet able to adequately serve their patron’s technology needs and are also serving high-poverty communities with limited access to computers and the Internet. Read more...

Boy with computerGetting Started

Local Matching Funds

Verify Matching Funds

Submit documentation not later than March 1, 2010 for phase 1, and March 1, 2011 for phase 2.

Turning the Page: Advocacy Training

Turning the Page online is live!  

Purchase and Install Computers

Please purchase a quality computer(s) that will stand up to patron use, a desktop and/or laptop computer of the make or model of your choice. Additionally, please consider other basic needs to ensure a quality experience for your patrons using the public access computers:

  • Routers, switches, hubs and other costs related to adding the new computers to your current network;
  • Software for the public to use;
  • Printer and toner used to support the computer;
  • Extended warranty and technical support over the life of the computer;
  • Staff training so that staff can help patrons use the computers;
  • Patron training on any new software;
  • Peripherals, such as additional printers, web cam, scanners, and educational software.

After the basic costs are covered, reserve any remaining grant funds for other costs related to upgrading, maintaining and operating the computer during its 3-4 year life.  

Tech Atlas

The Tech Atlas Inventory is your “final report” and validates that your library purchased the computers as awarded.

After you purchase your computer(s) but before August 31, 2010, for phase 1,  please update your Tech Atlas Inventory to reflect the addition of the new computer(s).

Public Libraries Funding & Technology Access Study

Complete the survey three times during the grant period.  The survey will be available early September through early November 2009, 2010 and 2011.

What Next? (check in here to make sure your library is on track with the grant..)

FAQ