The Kingfisher Memorial Library is helping patrons keep step with the digital age.

Using federal funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Oklahoma Department of Libraries awarded over $124,000 in Edge technology grants to 29 Oklahoma public libraries, with a maximum of $5,000 per library.

The Kingfisher library applied for and received $5,000 to purchase four children’s AWE Early Literacy Station computers, three iPads and two Samsung Galaxy tablets.

“Already the parents and children are delighted by the colorful and educational AWE computers as they help their kids learn at an early age via educational games for math and reading,” said Michael Tautkus, library director.

One parent who home schools her children said: “We are going to return this summer and make full use of these computers.”

The librarians are using the tablets to help patrons know how to use the technology and in downloading eBooks from the library Overdrive account that is free to all Kingfisher County residents having a library card.

“The AWE computers are internet free and therefore not a worry for the parents about letting their children loose on the internet,” Tautkus said.  

Edge is a management tool that helps libraries align their technology resources to 21st-century community priorities.

Libraries that participated in Edge were eligible to apply for the grant.

Edge assists libraries through technology assessments, action plan models and more, focusing on digital access and services in four critical areas: economic opportunity, civic engagement, education, and health.

Oklahoma public libraries participate in Edge through a license purchased by the Oklahoma Department of Libraries with federal funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The Kingfisher Memorial Library is open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until 5 p.m. on Friday. It’s also open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, except holidays.