By Kathy Chouteau
The Pinole and Antioch Libraries have received $2,576,800 in grant funding from the California State Library’s Building Forward Library Infrastructure Program for pressing deferred maintenance projects at their respective locations, according to Alison McKee, county librarian with the Contra Costa County Library, in her October message.
McKee said the Library will provide a required 50 percent funding match via Measure X funding and other grant funds from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD). BAAQMD’s Clear Air Centers Program also awarded the Pinole Library $511,360 to replace its HVAC system. When combined with its other funding, the local library will be able to also make improvements to its electrical services and lighting.
“These important improvements will ensure the longevity of both facilities so they can continue to be enjoyed for many years to come,” said McKee about both libraries.
McKee also announced that the library has also finished two years of work migrating to CENIC, which she said is “a cost-effective, high-speed broadband network that is provided through a partnership of education and governmental institutions” statewide.
Prior to this change, McKee said the library had to limit the bandwidth for each PC and Wi-Fi user, leading to an unsatisfactory experience. “Now there are no limitations and patrons can use library computers and Wi-Fi without fear of any slowdowns,” she said.
The Pinole Library is located at 2935 Pinole Valley Rd. in Pinole. Call (510) 758-2741 or click here for more info.
