Library System Receives $15K In Grants To Expand Internet Access

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — Central Rappahannock Regional Library has received three grants totaling $15,000 from The Community Foundation's Community Relief Fund to provide safe computer and Internet access to library patrons and provide free Internet access for residents lacking a digital connection at home, the library system said Tuesday.

The Community Relief Fund was started in October 2019 in case of a possible future threat to the Rappahannock River region community. Since the start of the coronavirus crisis, the fund has been used to support organizations that are addressing immediate needs, longer-term effects of the pandemic, and community recovery.

The Community Foundation, a nonprofit group founded 20 years ago, manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the city of Fredericksburg.

As of June 30, a total of $566,614 has been donated to local nonprofits and organizations through Community Foundation's Community Relief Fund.

The CRRL system has not opened its libraries for in-person service. The system is conducting curbside pickup for holds placed by patrons. Items for return can be placed at the book drop during curbside pickup hours.

Fairfax and Loudoun County libraries have reopened their libraries for service, with limits placed on how long patrons can stay in the libraries. Libraries in Arlington and Prince William counties and the city of Alexandria are still closed for most services, with only the pickup of items placed on hold allowed.

The CRRL has 10 branches and serves as the library system for the counties of Spotsylvania, Stafford, Westmoreland, Caroline, and the city of Fredericksburg.