Technology makeover may be in store for Jackson-Madison Co. Library

JACKSON, Tenn. — The Tennessee State Library and Archives recently awarded over $300,000 in technology grants to 114 public libraries across the state, and they did not leave out the Jackson-Madison County Library, which received a grant of $8,800.

“Videos, books, computers, newspapers — there can never be enough money spent on it,” Jackson resident Frank Ridley said.

“I look up different information about history and just stuff that I need to know about, filling out applications, resumes, a whole lot of good stuff,” Jackson resident Mark Johnson said.

And library employees tell us they already have big plans for the funds.

“MakerBot 3D Printer, we’re getting some VR goggles, we’re getting green-screen and AV equipment,” said Zoe Pride, the library’s technology service manager. “We’re also getting a microfilm scanner for the Tennessee Room.”

Staff we spoke with said the community classroom is where most of the technology they hope to receive from the grant will be available.

Computer classes are currently taught there, and the library is hoping with the addition of new technology it will offer an endless amount of opportunities.

“It’s a wonderful place to be,” Johnson said.

The grant is funded by  the State of Tennessee and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and those funds are then matched by the local government of the recipient.