Williamsport, PA – The James V. Brown Library is proud to announce it has been awarded a $75,000 grant from First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania (FCFP) through the Williamsport Lycoming Competitive Grant Program. The funding will support the creation of a new Technology Center designed to expand access to telehealth, education, employment resources, and digital literacy for residents across Lycoming County.
The Technology Center will provide private, soundproof spaces equipped for telehealth appointments, remote consultations, testing, job interviews, and virtual meetings. These services have become essential for many families and individuals who do not have access to reliable technology or private workspaces at home. The Center will include expanded public computer access, additional laptops for public use, high speed broadband, small group meeting spaces, and dedicated areas for learning, job seeking, and digital skill development.
“Access to reliable technology is a lifeline,” said Amy C. Resh, CEO and Director of the James V. Brown Library. “Whether someone needs to meet with a doctor, finish a class, apply for a job, or connect with vital services, this new Technology Center will ensure our community members are supported.”
Community Need and Impact
The Library has seen steadily increasing demand for computers, private workspaces, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The need is especially strong among seniors, low income families, veterans, individuals with disabilities, rural residents, and people experiencing homelessness. Community partners have also identified increasing needs for GED testing, homeschool evaluations, cyber school support, legal meetings, and workforce development. All of these needs require reliable technology and a safe, private environment. With the creation of this Technology Center, the Library will add 3 private telehealth and technology rooms, 8 additional laptops for public use, and a dedicated technology-assisted learning environment.
Advancing Digital Equity
This project directly supports the Library’s mission to be the community’s place to learn, connect, and grow. The Technology Center will reduce barriers to healthcare, education, and employment by offering free, equitable access to digital tools. It will advance digital literacy and promote greater social and economic opportunity throughout Lycoming County.
“We are deeply grateful to FCFP for believing in this vision,” said Savannah Lorson, Development, Marketing and Public Relations Director. “This investment will help us bridge the digital divide for thousands of residents.”
About the Grant
The $75,000 award is made possible through the generosity of the Williamsport Lycoming Competitive Grant Program and the many donor-supported funds held at FCFP. These funds work collectively to strengthen nonprofit initiatives that create meaningful impact across the region.
The First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania works to improve the quality of life in north central Pennsylvania through community leadership, the promotion of philanthropy, the strengthening of nonprofit impact and the perpetual stewardship of charitable assets. FCFP strives to create powerful communities through passionate giving. For more information, visit www.FCFPartnership.org.
The James V. Brown Library is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. To place a hold, visit www.jvbrown.edu or call 570-326-0536 during the library’s operating hours.
The James V. Brown Library, 19 E. Fourth St., Williamsport, Pa., is the place to go to learn, connect and grow. Founded in June 1907, the library champions the love of reading, opens new doors to lifelong learning, provides a haven to those who seek and ensures the preservation of public library services for future generations. A member of the Lycoming County Library System, the James V. Brown Library participates in PA Forward, a statewide initiative to promote literacies in our communities to power a better future for everyone.
