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The Osceola County Technology Library will include access to devices for digital literacy classes and tele-health care appointments, learning labs equipped with state-of-the-art technology and advanced operations like AI and VR. PHOTO/METRO CREATIVE
Osceola County announced Friday its been awarded $4 million to establish the Osceola County Technology Library.
The Multipurpose Community Facilities (MPCF) Program grant will provide investment in a $7.2 million library. This space will include access to devices for digital literacy classes and tele-health care appointments, learning labs equipped with state-of-the-art technology, resources for artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR), 3D printing, audio and video production and co-working and collaboration spaces for innovative projects.
While a county release said the facility will encompass an 8,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art space located in District 2, officials said there isn’t an exact location chosen yet, as it dwarfs existing space like the Robert Guevara community center.
District 2 County Commissioner Viviana Janer called the tech library a “Dream facility for our residents.”
“I’ve pushed hard for this initiative because it reflects my commitment to fostering technological literacy and providing equitable access to resources for all our residents,” Janer said. “By establishing a hub for tech innovation, the aim is to bridge the digital divide and empower individuals with the skills needed to thrive in today's digital economy.”
The Multipurpose Community Facilities Program funds facilities designed to jointly enable direct work, education, and health monitoring, county officials said. This is one of 29 MCFP-funded projects.
From the application process, “While rural communities with economic distress factors were given priority, Osceola County's application demonstrated compelling evidence of need and potential impact. Preference was given to areas with demonstrated economic distress factors, such as low per capita income, high unemployment, and poverty levels compared to state averages.”
“By connecting Floridians with centrally located community hubs, residents have increased access to find their next professional opportunity, upskill for future jobs and access telemedicine resources through a steady broadband internet connection," said FloridaCommerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly.
We'll be updating this story as details become available in the coming days.
