en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Oklahoma Broadband Office has launched a $14.5 million initiative to deploy 175 community access portals in libraries across the state, expanding access to healthcare, workforce services, and digital skills training.

This program, the first of its kind in the nation, has already seen over 75 rural libraries and regional library systems express interest in participating. Libraries can apply for a community access portal by submitting an order form to the Oklahoma Broadband Office.

Mike Sanders, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Broadband Office, stated in a July 13 press release that broadband access is not just about internet connectivity, but about connecting residents to opportunities that improve their quality of life. He noted that by partnering with libraries across the state, these trusted community spaces can be leveraged to help residents access healthcare services, seek employment opportunities, and develop digital skills.

This initiative will help transform libraries into community spaces where residents can go online, participate in virtual primary care appointments, telehealth consultations, workforce development services, remote job interviews, and build digital literacy skills.

The program is supported by the Capital Projects Fund under the American Rescue Plan Act. This fund provides $10 billion to states for building broadband networks in unserved communities. The American Rescue Plan Act is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus package passed in 2021.