American Rescue Act Funds Calcasieu Parish Library Outreach Program

Thanks to funding received from the American rescue plan Act, the Institute for Museum and Library Services, the Calcasieu Parish Public Library now has an opportunity to expand their outreach programs. According to Christy Comeaux, Public Information Officer for the library, they plan to put the extra funds to good use. Comeaux told KPLC the library will be getting new vans equipped with WiFi, so they can bring mobile hotspots to the community.

This is going a long way in enhancing the many outreach programs the library already provides such as: year-round reading for of all ages, WIC Benefit sign-up, LA Health Dept. Health Outreach, STEM and various other education programs and much more. Plus, providing mobile hotspots are necessary with a lack of reliable internet service for residents who are still rebuilding after last years hurricanes.

The van will help the library can come the patrons, when they can't come out due to situations like the pandemic Comeaux explained to the news. The Calcasieu Parish Public Library is set to receive a little more that $47,000 in funding. Portions of the money will also be allocated to purchase new laptops and update technical equipment used for youth and adult outreach programs and local internet use.