In an
attempt to give more people access to high-speed telecommunications like the
Internet, Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) helped pass a bill that
would allow school districts and boards of cooperative educational services
(BOCES) to contract with public libraries for high-speed telecommunications
(A.464-B).
“Allowing
public libraries to share in contracts with BOCES will save money for all
parties involved and increase public access to high speed internet,”
Assemblywoman Russell said.
Many BOCES
have invested significant money in the development of their own
telecommunications networks, including high-speed Internet services. This
measure would allow public libraries, which need these services but have not
been able to invest the money needed, to access already established networks
and share the cost of maintaining such a system at a reduced cost for both.
“This bill
would help libraries cut down on their costs, while increasing the quality of
the services they provide, allowing them to be more effective and efficient for
North Country families,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “I
urge the Senate to pass this measure before this year’s legislative session
comes to a close.”
-30-