"CSL's Library Services and Technology Act 5 Year Plan is based on helping libraries to become more robust and resilient during times of rapid change so in turn, they can help their communities become stronger. CSL focuses on emphasizing the role of libraries as community anchors while continuing to provide support for statewide resource sharing services focused on equity of access."

-- Deborah Schander, State Librarian

Entrepreneur in Residence  
Local businesses faced unprecedented challenges and opportunities as a result of the COVID pandemic. The Ferguson Library’s Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) program was designed to help 25 local startups and small business owners survive, pivot, and/or thrive in this environment. The program provided crucial insights and advice to local entrepreneurs who spanned the needs spectrum, from opening a business to shifting product or client focus to shutting down their business. Founders’ needs and goals were evaluated by the project director and then connected to an EIR consultant. The virtual program provided counseling, peer sessions and presentations from leading experts in all aspects of entrepreneurship. In addition to the program, the library provided data, research reports, and other assistance needed to complete business plans, marketing analysis, and related needs.
IMLS Funds: $7,500 

Youth Summer Career Bridging Workshops  
East Hartford Public Library, in partnership with the East Hartford Public Schools and East Hartford CONNects career navigator program, held a series of 10 virtual programs to prepare city youth ages 16-24 to successfully apply for and obtain jobs. Workshop topics included learning about online job resources available through the library, resume guidelines, financial literacy, mock job interviews, and a virtual job fair. The goals of this project were creating a stronger connection with youth in East Hartford, providing participants with the tools to obtain jobs, connecting employers with local youth, and supporting the town’s Summer Youth Employment Program. 
IMLS Funds: $3,395.25 

Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped 
The Connecticut State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (LBPH) provides for the reading and information needs of Connecticut residents who are blind, visually disabled, physically disabled, or print disabled. The LBPH is a member of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), Library of Congress, which provides reading materials, equipment, operating procedures, and the network infrastructure, while the LBPH is the state agency providing these services to Connecticut residents. This year total active readers numbered 5,621, and the LBPH added 402 patrons and inactivated/suspended 269 patron accounts. Among institutions that borrowed materials, there were 36 libraries, 32 schools, 19 hospitals, and 123 nursing and convalescent homes. 
IMLS Funds: $406,859.62