All available resources have been needed to replace the library building and to begin rebuilding the library materials collection. Now that we have moved into the building, we are faced with the need to purchase basic furnishings and shelving. The library needs help to purchase badly needed equipment and software for information technology and development of the Internet project. Poverty and isolation are major barriers to information access. Patrons in the rural areas of the community and those who do not have adequate transportation have very little exposure to this important resource.
Most parish residents live in rural areas.
Traditionally residents in the rural areas of the parish have depended on forestry and agriculture related jobs. Recently, many of these jobs have disappeared leaving people out of work or under-employed and in need of marketable job skills. Per capita income in 1995 was slightly lower than the state per capita and considerably below the national level. Working with local agencies involved in job training and economic development, we have discovered that parish residents need hands on access to computer equipment, assistance in preparing resumes and other job search documents and information regarding resources for job training. Co-operative projects with the school librarians in the parish have shown that the school system in this parish is no exception.