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The Bucyrus Public Library has been selected by the State Library of Ohio to participate in the Guiding Ohio Online AmeriCorps program. Funded by a grant from ServeOhio, Ohio’s commission on service and volunteerism, Guiding Ohio Online was developed by the State Library of Ohio to support rural public libraries’ efforts to teach patrons to find, understand, and use vital online resources and services.
Bucyrus Public Library and Guiding Ohio Online is currently looking for flexible, caring individuals committed to community service to hire part-time for an 11 month term of service as an AmeriCorps member to begin service on October 1. The AmeriCorps member will deliver digital literacy training through computer classes, one-on-one computer assistance, outreach, and volunteer recruitment for the library. Anyone that is interested learning more about becoming an AmeriCorps member should contact Brenda Crider, Bucyrus Public Library at 419-562-7327, ext. 102 or Mandy Knapp, State Library at 614-466-1710.
Guiding Ohio Online requires one-time match funds from the Bucyrus Public Library for the purpose of training and sustaining the AmeriCorps Member. As a community focused institution, the Bucyrus Public Library constantly strives to innovate and find new ways to best serve its patrons. In teaming with AmeriCorps, the Bucyrus Public Library hopes to deliver successful computer training and empower the community with the skills to navigate digital technology.
ServeOhio is purposed specifically to administer grants in Ohio under the federal National & Community Service Trust Act of 1993. Today, the largest of these grants is the AmeriCorps program, where Ohio currently has 21 partner organizations and over 600 AmeriCorps members. AmeriCorps programs provide opportunities for Americans to make an intensive commitment to service. The AmeriCorps network of local, state, and national service programs engages more than 70,000 Americans each year.
AmeriCorps members serve through more than 3,000 nonprofits, public agencies, and faith-based and other community organizations. Through their direct service, AmeriCorps members help meet critical needs in target areas.
The vision of the State Library is a Smarter Ohio where every Ohioan can access the necessary resources to be engaged citizens, excel at their jobs, participate in the workforce, and pursue their passions and interests. The State Library is committed to leading innovation and development efforts for libraries to ensure ongoing relevance to communities across Ohio. The Guiding Ohio Online project will provide unique opportunities for Ohio public libraries by ensuring a coordinated approach to teaching digital literacy skills while also allowing for AmeriCorps members to adapt trainings to the needs of individual communities.