Weehawken Free Public Library Executive Director Phillip Greco had no idea that Bill Gates, the head of the Microsoft computer conglomerate, had established a foundation that would send computer equipment to needy public libraries.
"Someone sent us an application and told us that we were able to apply for the grant," Greco said.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation was formed with the idea to expand the general public’s access to computers nationwide, as well as facilitate the use of the Internet for people, especially children, who do not have access through home computers.
Last week, the library was informed that it will receive a grant of nearly $17,000 that will lead to the purchase of some valuable computer equipment.
With the funds, the library will receive six stand-alone computers, network accessory kits, two Spanish keyboards and one Hewlett Packard Laser printer. All of the computers will be equipped with 16 pre-loaded software packages, as well as Spanish language equipment, making the computers completely bilingual. It includes the Spanish version of Microsoft Office and Microsoft Internet Explorer.
The Weehawken Free Public Library was one of 43 public libraries in New Jersey to receive financial assistance via the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
"We’re really pleased to be able to receive this grant," Greco said. "It’s the first time that we’ve ever received anything of this magnitude. We’ll be able to add state-of-the-art computer equipment that will benefit our patrons, especially the children. The programs in the computers are wonderful, like the Magic School Bus and the Encyclopedia Carter, that are designed for children. It’s also important that the programs are bilingual."
Greco attended a workshop designed by the Gates Foundation for library people to learn more about the equipment. The workshop was held last week in Clifton. Technical support worker Eric Negron attended the workshop with Greco.
"It was very informative and a professional presentation," Greco said. "They went into detail about what we are going to receive. After going to the workshop, I’m very excited about what we’re going to get."
Weehawken Mayor Richard Turner was also pleased that the library received the grant.
"We are extremely proud and honored that our library was selected," Turner said. "The Township Council and Library Board of Trustees are committed to the continuation of providing expanded programs at the library to the residents of Weehawken."
A dedicated room at the Library has been selected for the use of the computers in order to provide the best accessibility.
"We want to provide as many programs possible, especially for the children," Greco said. "This enables children another opportunity to learn, do research and have fun."
Children’s programs
With that in mind, the library is pleased to announce two programs established for children.
The first program is called "Circle Time" and it is geared toward children ages 6 months to 3 years old. On Wednesdays, children ages 6 months to 18 months will meet at 11 a.m. On Fridays, children 19 months to 2.5 years old will meet, also at 11 a.m.
"Circle Time," where parents or guardians have to accompany their children, provides youngsters the opportunity for sing-alongs, finger puppets and arts and crafts. Stories are read to the children.
"It’s almost like a ‘Mommy & Me’ program," said librarian Kelly Fitzgerald. "It provides an early introduction to education."
The second program, called "Story Time," is geared toward 3 and 4-year-old children. It features teaching toddlers about the alphabet, taking a letter and having stories and arts and crafts involving that letter. There are also songs and dances, coloring and counting as well.
"Story Time" is presented Tuesday afternoons from 1-2:30 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m.
Each session is limited to only 20 children and a child can only attend one of the sessions each week. The programs are limited to Weehawken residents only and proof of residence is required when registering. Pre-registration is required.
"Circle Time" begins Wednesday, Oct. 2, and "Story Time" begins Saturday, Oct. 5.
For further information, contact the Weehawken Free Public Library at (201) 863-7823.
The Weehawken Free Public Library, located on Hauxhurst Avenue, is open Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.