The library saw this project as an opportunity to reach out to seniors and New Americans in the community. The idea of preserving family stories of living in and immigrating to the United States is an important community value and the library wants to position itself as a resource for providing the tools and skills needed to preserve these stories, as well as a repository for collecting and disseminating them.

This project contributes to diverse opportunities of learning and literacy. Providing access to the equipment and expertise provides many digital newcomers the resources and skills needed to engage in a digital world. This project strengthens community partnerships by collaborating with senior facilities, faith-based and cultural organizations. This is also an innovative way to engage with local historical associations, creating opportunities to bring the community into the world of digital historical preservation.

Due to the pandemic and our need to close the library, we have been unable to achieve our anticipated outcomes and goals, as highlighted in our elements of innovation. With a new IMLS grant, we would like to explore the idea of a mobile VML, that can bring the equipment to various locations in the city. However given the ongoing pandemic and social-distancing protocols in place, it may take a while to see this happen. We’re very eager to put this equipment to use again.