New Computer Stations at Cortez Library Increase Visitation

After a sharp 2020 drop in visitors to the Cortez Library—the only space with public access to the town’s fiber optic internet—staff was thinking about how to bring people back through the doors. Before the pandemic, many community members relied on the library’s computers and free internet access. But even then the space had been cramped and dark. Now it was clear that the existing furniture and layout, which didn’t allow for effective social distancing or cleaning, were an even bigger drawback. With a grant from LOR, and working with the Cortez Friends of the Library group to save costs, they were able to open up the space and turn it into a place where patrons would want to spend time. LOR funding allowed for the purchase of 20 sleek new, ADA-compliant computer stations with phone and laptop charging stations, as well as translucent dividers to provide greater patron privacy and more natural light.