Libraries Provide Internet Access

Ventura County has opened up the information superhighway to all residents, providing computer links in library branches across the county.

A few taps on the computer keys will bring up information on agricultural exports, pro football schedules, NASA space lifts or weather conditions anywhere in the world.

Through the Internet system, the library will provide access to thousands of databases for federal, commercial, even sports information, said Ruth Hartman, adult services manager for the library system.

The computers now are available in every library except the Saticoy branch, which is in temporary quarters, she said. Also, residents can tap into the network from home computers with the appropriate software and instructions from the library.

The plan uses existing computers, leaving the library to pay about $2,000 this year to the company providing the Internet connection.

The system could eventually include a “county bulletin board,” providing information on meetings and new policies. County data processors are now studying ways to develop the computer information system.

“We’ve got to determine whether the demand is there, what the needs are and how expensive it is going to be,” said George Mathews, director of the county’s Information Systems Department.

For instance, the county clerk’s office is assessing whether to put the Board of Supervisors’ weekly agenda on the computerized program.

“We only have 57 subscribers to this thing, plus the press,” said County Clerk and Recorder Richard Dean, waving a copy of the agenda. “Is there enough demand to make it financially viable?”