Kingsport Public Library receives state technology grant

The Kingsport Public Library has been awarded a Training Opportunities for the Public (TOP) grant from the Tennessee State Library and Archives.

The $4,080 TOP grant will be matched with $1,020 in city funds and then used to purchase six portable Wi-Fi hot spots and cover their monthly service fee. Patrons will be able to check out these hotspots from the library’s Fort Henry Mall location and use them to provide Wi-Fi wherever they may need it.

Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett presented library staff with a grant check during an event Thursday afternoon.

“We’re extremely thankful to the Tennessee State Library and Archives for awarding us this grant,” said Library Manager Stephanie Griffin. “These funds will allow us to provide much-needed technology to our patrons, some of whom may not have readily accessible internet access at all times.”

The Training Opportunities for the Public (TOP) Grant is available for public libraries to be able to provide services for their communities. Grant funds are available for training, hot spots, solar charging tables and internal connections.

For information about other events, programs and activities offered by the Kingsport Public Library, please visit www.kingsportlibrary.org.