Marathon Public Library on June 28 announced that it received a $35,000 grant from the COVID Library Relief Fund of the American Library Association. The library is one of 34 grantees representing public, school, and tribal libraries that experienced substantial economic hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic. Only 15% of applicants received an award.

The library submitted the grant in partnership with Marathon ISD. Both entities are committed to improving and expanding educational initiatives that improve learning for children, and ensure digital access for all community members.

“These past 15 months have been challenging for our Library and MISD as we work together to meet the needs of our community,” said Library Executive Director Katie Hector. “These critically needed funds will support collection development, children and adult programs, and technology at our library. The grant also will help fund improvements to MISD’s library, and the development of a digital learning lab housed at the school. This partnership helps us move closer to our goal to ensure full electronic literacy and participation by the people living in and around Marathon.”

According to Marathon ISD Superintendent Dr. Peter Price, the new digital learning lab will be available to students during the day, and next year to families and community members in the evenings.

Said Price, “This technology-rich teaching and learning space will feature two new computers and new software programs such as computer-aided design to allow students to design projects to be made in the school’s shop. The lab will provide different types of educational opportunities and encourage collaborative learning among our students. We are pleased to have such a strong partnership with Marathon Public Library.”

A complete list of grant recipients and project proposals are available at ala.org/aboutala/ala-covid-library-relief-fund-awardees.