Authority: Title 42.1, Chapters 1 and 3, Code of Virginia.

A. It is the intent of the General Assembly to continue implementation of "Infopowering the Commonwealth" to provide electronic resources for public libraries and to provide universal access to all citizens of the Commonwealth. For this purpose, $500,000 the first year and $500,000 the second year from the general fund is included in this appropriation. The Library of Virginia may allocate grants, not to exceed $8,000 each, to local libraries to start up and create Internet capacity. First priority for the grants shall be local libraries that currently do not have adequate hardware to access the Internet. In awarding the grants, The Library of Virginia shall also give consideration to libraries in localities with greatest financial need, as determined by such methods as the local fiscal stress index of the Commission on Local Government.

B. This Item includes $1,000,000 the first year and $1,000,000 $1,150,000 the second year from the general fund to assist The Library of Virginia in its efforts to increase computer and Internet access at local public libraries. This Item also includes $1,700,000 the second year from the general fund and for electronic resource materials. The Librarian of Virginia and the Secretary of Technology shall collaborate in developing proposals for alternative Internet access spaces in public libraries designed to encourage usage by individuals who are less likely to use conventional library facilities. The Librarian of Virginia, in consultation with the Secretary of Technology, shall report to the House Appropriations and Senate Finance Committees prior to the 2002 Session of the General Assembly on progress made in using these funds to advance public access to technology and electronic information, including Internet-based information.

C. The Library Board shall develop a grant program for public library construction projects. This Item includes $315,000 the first year and $450,000 the second year from the general fund for construction grants. In the first year, The Library of Virginia shall make grants to the following public libraries: Suffolk/Portsmouth ($50,000); Covington/Allegheny ($50,000); Dinwiddie ($50,000); Buchanan County ($50,000); Williamsburg ($10,000); Charles City/New Kent ($5,000); Rural Retreat ($50,000); and Franklin County ($50,000). By November 1, 2000, the Librarian of Virginia shall report to the Governor and the General Assembly on the process to be used in the second year for requesting funds and the criteria for allocating funds.