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About Arizona Public Access Computers (AzPAC)

The Arizona State Library, Archive and Public Records division is leading the Arizona Public Access Computers (AzPAC) Project. The AzPAC Project was developed to meet Arizona’s growing public library needs including; deliver of e-resources, government, business and health information, training for job searching, re-careering and business planning.

• AzPAC funded at $1,598,000 from Broadband Technology Opportunities Program part of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration & U.S. Department of Commerce
• AzPAC goals
  • Provide additional access to PACs
  • Reduce long wait times for access to PACs
  • Support access to 21st century skills training and e-resources
• AzPAC activities
  • Install 1,000+ public access computers (PAC) in 84 public libraries
  • Enhance access to computers in public libraries
  • Serve 1.8+ million library patrons over a three year period

The 84 AzPAC Libraries are spread across the state covering populations that have inadequate or no access to computers and internet. Arizona Public Libraries are often the only entity providing no-fee access to the internet, whether filing for healthcare benefits, refinancing a mortgage, looking for information on loved ones during disasters/emergencies, or for students doing home-work. Additionally, many libraries take laptops to community recreation centers and other venues serving vulnerable populations that are unable to come to the library.

AzPAC will support training to enhance business and open avenues to job creation. Help with resumes, job searches, job applications, business and banking, key components to sustaining the communities and stimulating long-term economic growth. Additionally the AzPAC Libraries will support the floating population of winter visitors who also need library services.

The Arizona State Library, Archive and Public Records division has considerable experience in administering grants and coordinating statewide projects. Grants from; the Nina Mason Pulliam Foundation, Arizona Commission on the Arts, Arizona Humanities Council, the National Endowment for the Humanities and Library of Congress, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), Gates Foundation and others.

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