A fully functional laptop computer lab was unveiled last Sunday, Dec. 11 at the Heginbotham Library Extravaganza. The lab, located in the library basement, was set up last week and will soon be the site of a variety of computer classes for the community, including beginning user courses.

Handmade gifts galore entice holiday shoppers at
the annual Library Extravaganza last Sunday, Dec. 11.
Funds raised will go toward the library’s new laptop
computer lab.

—Enterprise photo

Sharon Morris, director of library development and innovation with the Colorado State Library, said Holyoke is one of 84 communities across the state to receive a federal grant in conjunction with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The goal of the project is to bring updated computers and wireless internet to rural communities. The $19,497 grant as well as local matching funds of $2,166 provided six laptop computers for the new lab as well as four desktops to replace old computers at the library.

Naomi Schafer tests out one of the brand new laptops during the Heginbotham Library Extravaganza. The lab will soon be used for a variety of community computer courses.

—Enterprise photo

Librarian Laura Roth said after some training they hope to get classes going after the first of the year.

Community members not only got to see the new lab on Sunday, they also saw the beautiful library Christmas decorations, browsed handmade holiday gifts and enjoyed some delicious treats.

The annual Extravaganza sale made over $800, which will be put toward the matching funds for the new computers.

Holyoke Enterprise December 15, 2011