Thank you Google!

Thank you Google! Did you know that Google has contributed a total of $458,200 grants to the Library for technology and STEM programming?

Recently, a class of fourth- and fifth-graders from Concord Elementary received training on the basic concepts of computer coding with Juan Rubio, digital media and learning program manager for The Seattle Public Library. After their training the students raced the robots at a special event at The Seattle Public Library’s South Park Branch.

The Library’s finch program is made possible through a $58,200 grant from Google, The Library currently has 100 finches that it uses in a curriculum that introduces students to computer coding and develops skills in problem-solving and collaboration. This is one of several of the Library’s partnerships with Google to increase patron access to technology and digital literacy.

Google and the Library initially worked together to launch the highly successful Wi-Fi Hotspot program in 2015. Google has contributed more than $300,000 to the Library’s Wi-Fi Hotspot lending program. A Library survey revealed that 31 percent of Library patrons who check out the hotspots have no internet at home and 31 percent have incomes under $20,000 a year. The 835 hotspots have circulated over 18,000 times since the lending program began.

Google also has gifted $75,000 to the Library to put laptops and tablets in nine branches. Patrons can borrow them for use in the branch for 90 minutes a day. The eight laptops and two tablets will be loaded with the latest software, including Windows 10 and educational resources.

Thank you Google for your incredible support!