Knight Foundation Extends Free Public Internet Access To Bradenton

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation is helping libraries in 20 U.S. communities increase digital access and training, and Bradenton is on the list of recipients.

Launched in October 2009, the effort is part of the foundation's $5.5 million library initiative which intends to lessen the lack of equal access to quality information.

"Internet access is a prerequisite to being an informed and engaged citizen in the digital age – whether you're looking for a job, or for information on health issues or school scholarships," says Alberto Ibargüen, president of Knight Foundation.

Thanks to the Knight Foundation, Bradenton residents will be able to make job and other Internet searches faster with expanded bandwidth capabilities. Other cities that will benefit from the Knight Foundation's contribution include: expanded wifi access in Duluth, MN; job search capabilities in Columbia, SC; computer training in Biloxi, MS and the Mississippi Gulf Coast; new equipment for Macon, GA; and the addition of computers in San Jose, CA.

The Knight Foundation has already funded digital access projects for libraries in Aberdeen, SD; Akron, OH; Charlotte, NC; Columbus, GA; Detroit, MI: Grand Forks, ND; Lexington, KY; Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, FL; Milledgeville, GA; Myrtle Beach, SC; Witchita, KS; and Tallahassee, FL.

Writer: Nancy Vaughn
Source: Alberto Ibargüen, Knight Foundation