Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft announced that the Scenic Regional Library received a Technology Ladder Grant of $30,921 and a STEM Program Grant of $10,000.The Technology Ladder Grant will be used to upgrade technology-related equipment and software, and the STEM Program Grant will be used to to create or enhance efforts to serve patrons of all ages through STEM-based programs.“Libraries are an integral part of our communities, providing Missourians with a wealth of knowledge and resources,” Ashcroft said. “Grants like the ones the Scenic Regional Library received are important to ensuring our libraries continue to provide the best services and programs to their patrons.”The library will use the Technology Ladder Grant to purchase self-check workstations for the Pacific, St. Clair, Sullivan, Warrenton and Wright City branches.The workstations will provide patrons with faster access to circulation, access to readers’ advisory tools, and online registration for library programs.The STEM Program Grant will be used to offer STEM Playground programs to school districts in its service area, giving rural students a chance at hands-on experience with STEM technology.Through this hands-on experience, K-12 students will gain self-efficacy and a new view of their own capabilities as a STEM student.Technology Ladder Grants provide funding for eligible libraries to help them move up the technology ladder to a higher level of service by providing financial assistance for technology hardware, software and website development.STEM Program Grants provide funding for eligible libraries to create or enhance programs that include creative, educational, and/or instructional elements designed to increase the participant’s STEM skills and knowledge.Scenic Regional Library logo