WHAT we do
Project Description:
Mountain Home Twin Lakes Computer Users Group provides management and staffing
for the Baxter County Library's eight public computers. The volunteers perform
the following duties:
- Keep the computer reservation and assignment log
- Assist patrons in understanding and program usage
- Instruct students and beginners in the nuances of the internet and email
- Control and release system users' printer jobs including collecting the
money charged for copies
- Watch all clientele insuring inappropriate web sites are not visited
This volunteer effort frees up paid library personnel which facilitates more
beneficial use of the library employees. It is estimated that the 2,450
man-hours of volunteer service provided saves the library and community at least
$19,000.00 in additional taxes. In addition to immediate assistance to student
users, these volunteers provide the necessary mandated monitoring of computer
usage to maintain nationally dictated levels of decorum and prevent pornographic
site visitations.
The TLCUG volunteer coordinator maintains records of permanent volunteers along
with a list of substitute volunteers who step in on short notice in the event of
illness, vacations, or out of town guests and other emergencies. (See Microsoft
Excel worksheet, TLCUG _Volunteers.xls).
In order for the long range individual commitment to succeed, two volunteers are
assigned for every time period; 2 four hour shifts per day, six days a week.
The two volunteers decide how to share their time. The coordinator obtains
substitutes when neither partner can cover a time period.
How we will use award money:
The Twin Lakes Computer Users Group will continue to provide educational classes
and projects for members and non-members of our community. Funding for the
following needs will be a major use for Jerry Award money: continuing
maintenance and updating teaching equipment plus the addition of new components
necessary to demonstrate advancing technology such as wireless networking and
digital photography.
Some money will also be used to purchase books in order to provide resource
material for members and mentors. Ultimately these books will be donated to the
Baxter County Library's computer reference department.
Part of the money would be used for the purchase of components to help rebuild
and refurbish older computers and equipment which will then be donated to local
community non-profit organizations and indigent or handicapped individuals.
HOW we do what we do
