Michigan State University

Evidence Based Computer Center Deployment

The Evidence Based Computer Center Deployment project proposes to expand 84 existing library computer centers and establish four new public computer centers that serve 15 underserved counties with high unemployment rates. The sites were selected by targeting vulnerable population areas and then focusing on those libraries with the greatest need for additional computing capacity. The project expects to add 500 new workstations at public computer centers throughout the state, serving nearly 13,000 additional users per week. The project involves major state government programs including the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and Michigan Works! Association for job retraining, and local and county government programs to expand training and business support services.

Total Award: 
$895482
BTOP In Action

Michigan State University (MSU) celebrated the opening of a new BTOP-funded public computer center (PCC) on August 12, 2010, at Lake Superior Village Youth Center in Marquette, an underserved area with high unemployment. Community leaders, youth center staff, and government officials, including a representative from Congressman Bart Stupak’s office, attended the event. The new center includes a media lab with 16 workstations and provides computer access to low-income elementary and high school students participating in the center’s summer and after-school programs. MSU expected to complete three more PCCs by fall 2010. The project expects to add 500 new workstations at PCCs throughout the state, serving nearly 13,000 additional users per week. Major state government programs including the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and Michigan Works! Association are involved in the project for job retraining, and local and county government programs to expand training and business support services.

Last Updated: November 22, 2010

Reports and Documents
Award Documents