The Arizona State Library is along the list of some 2,200 applicants on the waiting list to see if they will receive federal broadband stimulus money.

 

State officials submitted an application for $1.28 million to enhance an existing computer center and to better meet the growing demands of the state’s 84 public libraries statewide by providing public access computers. The computers would used to help users access e-resources, allowing libraries to offer training in 21st century skills while promoting broadband awareness.

 

In addition, the computers would help library staffers provide outreach by taking mobile laptops and training to vulnerable populations, officials said.

 

The application is pending before the National Telecommunications Information Administration, the U.S. Department of Commerce agency that advises the president on telecom policy.

 

Officials with the NTIA expect to announce the recipients the first $4 billion in broadband stimulus funds. The federal funding is designed to boost high-speed Internet connections in rural areas.

 

Arizona’s application is one in a crowded field that has totaled some $28 million worth of requests. And if experts are correct, the application might stand a good chance of earning the funding.

 

Recently, TMCnet spoke with Sanjit Biswas (News - Alert), CEO of Meraki, a cloud-based wireless networking company. Meraki has helped customers apply for funds to provide last mile access and offered advice on network planning. According to Biswas, priority will be given to applicants of projects that are meant to have a great impact on the public, such as libraries.