Sno-Isle Libraries will receive a funding leg up

Sno-Isle Libraries is one of the 17 libraries receiving money through the Washington State Library portion of “Tools for Tough Times” grant.

It is part of a $4 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation that will help 10 community foundations.

“The recession has affected thousands of families in our state, and many need a hand as they work toward economic recovery and stability,” said William H. Gates Sr., co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Sno-Isle has committed to purchasing 30 notebook computers, which will be dedicated for job seekers by providing online resources for skills building and job search.

With addition of the new computers, Sno-Isle will be able to waive the two-hour a day computer limit, recognizing that job seekers often need more time for job searching, completing an application, developing a résumé, or working to improve computer skills. The notebook computers will be available at the Darrington, Granite Falls, Lynnwood, Marysville, Oak Harbor, Stanwood, and Sultan libraries.

“These communities are in greatest need for this additional resource, either because of high demand from the rest of the community, or distance from other employment resources,” said Mary Kelly, community relations and marketing director for Sno-Isle Libraries.