The Richland County Public Library has received a grant from the Knight Foundation to expand computer and Internet access. The $438,000 award, announced Dec. 15, is designed to help the library expand its efforts to help residents in career and employment searches.

The grant will help create a job center at Richland County’s Main Library. And the library's Eastover branch will launch a “Tech Tuesdays” program to provide computer training and support. Other branches will receive additional computers.
 
“There’s no doubt that libraries are critical resources for those looking for work, whether they need access to technology or instruction on creating email accounts and resumes,” said RCPL Director Melanie Huggins in a press statement. “Library staff are knowledgeable and can assist job seekers in numerous ways –- but only if there is enough technology available. This grant will allow our libraries to meet a dire need, helping residents provide for themselves and their families and making the community stronger.”

Susan Patternson, Knight Foundation program director for Columbia, said the grant should increase the role of the library in residents' lives.
 
“Libraries offer residents free and easy access to the critical news and information they need to make decisions about their lives,” she said. “Through this initiative, we hope to augment libraries’ roles as vital community centers while helping to create engaged and informed communities.”