Funds to cover internet accessible devices, technical support, and digital inclusion efforts to connect communities with health information, government resources, jobs, and remote learning programs
WHITE PLAINS, NY – Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester) today announced $1,757,940 in federal funding for the New York State Library Administrative Agency through the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) funded in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to help expand digital network access for New Yorkers. In the face of the COVID-19 emergency, these funds will support the purchase of internet-enabled devices and other essential technical support services.
“The coronavirus outbreak across the Lower Hudson Valley has thrown the existing gap in access to technology into sharp relief, particularly for New Yorkers with limited access to broadband, students who need internet access on a computer to continue learning from home, and those with jobs that require remote capabilities,” said Congresswoman Lowey. “Museums, libraries, and their staffs are critical resources for our community, providing access to health, government, and job information, and these measures will continue to support their urgent needs during this emergency. It is more important than ever that we show our support and empower our nation’s museums and libraries, as they provide critical resources for our schools, families, and students.”
As Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Lowey helped lead the House negotiations with Senate Republicans and the Trump Administration on the CARES Act that included a total of $50 million for the IMLS to provide federal assistance to museums, libraries, and other education providers working to expand access to critical community resources. This more than $1.75 million for New York is part of the initial, immediate infusion of $30 million to provide emergency relief through state libraries and museums.
This funding in addition to tens of billions in federal assistance that will protect New York families, keep small businesses afloat, and stem the spread of COVID-19 so the Lower Hudson Valley can fully recover as quickly as possible.
