Tribal Library Location: Toppenish, Washington
Year Opened: 1980
Service Area Size: 100-150 patrons/day
Square Footage: 6,000 square feet
Points of Contact: Merida Kipp, library administrator; Melannie Belly, computer specialist
Project Description:
The Yakama Nation’s Tribal Library focused its digital inclusion lab on equipping its current computer lab with up-to-date technology. The goal of the computer lab is to allow library users to utilize new technologies and ensure their education and learning efforts are modern and comprehensive. The vision for this project is to help lead the community across the digital divide. The library also went through a recent overall remodel, and staff are eager to encourage patrons to visit the remodeled library, featuring the updated computer lab.
Based on community needs, the library provides computers for education, job search, job applications, leisure, and communication. Two areas in the library are dedicated to computing resources, including a row of public computers in the library’s open space, and a separate room with a computer lab. To update its computer lab, the library focused its budget on new computer hardware (HP All-in-One Desktops, which combines the CPU, monitor, and other computer components into a single unit). The library wanted to try out some additional hardware brands but was limited in the type of equipment it could purchase since they had to go through their Tribal IT Department’s approved vendor list.
The Tribal library is closely connected with its community and is an important touchpoint for Wi-Fi, high-speed internet, technology devices, and other resources. Many in the surrounding community do not have the same level of access, making the library a leader in advancing technology and providing access to digital resources to the community. By ensuring they have the most up-to-date computers and software, the library can bridge the digital divide for its community members.
Best Practices & Lessons Learned:
- Develop a technology replacement cycle plan when purchasing new computers: To keep a digital inclusion lab sustainable and responsive to the community, a Tribal library should plan an end-of-life technology replacement plan. All technology has a finite lifespan, which is usually three to five years due to hardware breaking down over time or because the library’s needs surpass what the technology can do. Planning ahead of when you’ll need to purchase a replacement will help you budget for the future and ensure you don’t have unnecessary outdated equipment.
- Take the role of First Adaptor in your community: Tribal libraries may have high-quality internet access, while many in their surrounding community do not have the same access, speed, or reliability. Because of this, the Tribal library naturally has a reputation of being a leader in bringing the latest digital or tech services to the community. Embrace this role as a “First Adaptor” and promote this within your community so they know that the library not only provides access but can also teach what new technologies are available.