Governor Roy Cooper visited the Neuse Regional Library to explore bridging the digital divide and bringing Internet access to more people through its programs. In addition to the Neuse Regional Library, Cooper also visited the Lenoir County Health Department to encourage vaccine use.

“We know now more than ever, the importance of access to Internet connectivity is vital,” said Melanie Morgan, Neuse Regional Library Director. “The digital divide describes the gap between those who have access to the Internet and those who do not.”

On a guided tour led by Morgan, Cooper saw examples of the Neuse Regional Library implemented its strategic plan to mesh modern libraries with traditional ones.

In the Teen Area, Cooper observed the use of the Oculus Rift Virtual Reality System where users can explore areas of social justice, to better understand what’s going on in their world.

“Great subjects to be learning about and a great interactive way to learn, so that’s fantastic,” said Cooper.

Jones County does not have broadband internet throughout the whole county. In the WiFi for all exhibit, Cooper listened to Jones County Manager Franky Howard discuss the ways Jones County bridged the broadband gap. The WiFi for all project placed public hot spots throughout the county with towers going up to support those hot spots.

“This is a great stopgap measure to get more people to have it available and increase the digital literacy,” said Cooper.

The Neuse Regional Library displayed a Career Ready Lab, as well as an Entrepreneurship program. The goal of the Entrepreneurship program is to develop mindsets to achieve their small business goals.

“We do want to create an atmosphere in North Carolina that is positive for innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Cooper. “Small business is the backbone of our economy.”

Other areas highlighted by the library were the Digital Media Lab which allows users to create digital media including podcasts and creating music. In the Children’s section, Cooper heard about the Homework Help Program and the Stem for All Program which were in place before the pandemic and allowed for immediate assistance in the local community.

“We’ve come a long way in a short period of time, but there is much more that needs to be done,” said Morgan.

Cooper spoke before an audience that included local members of the city and county government.

“One of the good things that we’ve seen during this pandemic, is shining a spotlight on challenges we know are already there,” said Cooper.