Colorado State Library Update

Gene Hainer has compiled an update of Colorado State Library initiatives and activities.

Current CSL Funding Initiatives

• Broadband – Round 2 of the Broadband Technology Opportunity Program (BTOP) should be available by December. The CSL will work with libraries on a proposal to create regionally-based mobile computer labs for library and community use. The B&M Gates Foundation has offered consulting assistance for the application and to fund the required 20% match, if awarded. The Governor’s office announced on Oct. 16 nine proposals for consideration by BTOP, totaling $338M. (List includes Denver Public Library and High Plains Library District proposals as well as vendors working with libraries including Eagle Net.)
• Race to the Top part 1- One competitive grant opportunity is open only to state education agencies. CDE is working with the Lt Gov’s office on a proposal. A recommendation has been made to fund e-resources statewide. Results of the request won’t be known until proposal is completed. Details at http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/OIT-2/OIT2/1240228834570.

• Race to the Top part 2 -A second competitive opportunity, Investing in Innovation (i3) will open later for schools, consortia of schools, and non-profit organizations. Work is underway to craft a statewide or multi-state proposal to fund electronic resources, homework help, and other tools in libraries and schools to support learning outside of the classroom.

Public Library Standards
A committee/task force will be formed this month to review information from recent focus groups, establish a plan for the revision, with completion by fall, 2010.

Virtual Learning for staff
CLiC and the State Library announced the joint venture “I’m an Online Learner” on October 1 which allows access to WebJunction courses for $10.  Learn more at:  I’m an Online Learner.

LSTA grants
Nearly $400,000 in LSTA grants were announced in October. Press release and background items at www.ColoradoStateLibrary.org/lsta.

General Updates

• The Library Development Council meets on October 26 to talk about direction, and future trends and issues in libraries.
• The Continuing Education Forum changed its name to “Reach! Leading learning in libraries” and will continue to focus on CE collaboration, opportunities, and innovations.
• Butterfly (library marketing campaign): the advisory committee requested additional work on the concepts by the design firm. This will move the theme selection into December instead of October.