AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Upshur County Public Library (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
└ Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Staff at the Upshur County Public Library hoped to turn an unsafe and unsightly building on the library's campus into a more useful space. To give visitors a space to access free Wi-Fi -- as well as relax, socialize and read -- the library worked to replace the building with an outdoor living room. After tearing down the structure, leveling out the site and seeding new grass, the library outfitted the space with ADA-compliant picnic tables, Adirondack chairs and planter boxes. They also installed outdoor charging stations to help residents access the internet, even while the library is closed. Volunteers with the West Virginia Master Gardeners planted native flowers onsite, and now use the greenspace to host gardening trainings. Organizers say the parklet is an important amenity for residents who lack access to greenspace.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Georgetown, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Description: This project created a computer lab for use by library patrons. It also functions as a classroom for computer lessons.
Kaunakaukai, HI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Description: This project set up a free, outdoor Wi-Fi hotspot and provided assistance to those trying to connect to the internet. It also offered digital literacy instructions and installed ADA-compliant outdoor furniture.
Barre, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Description: The center will add a computer lab onsite to improve digital connectivity for older adults. The center will also work with local organizations to teach residents computer skills and online safety best practices.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Buckhannon, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Expanding HighSpeed Internet
Description: Upshur County Public Library responded to gaps in broadband access and digital skills that made it difficult for older adults to manage everyday online tasks. The library purchased laptops, hotspots and a large screen TV, then launched weekly classes across multiple community sites with volunteer support. Participants showed significant gains on post-tests and often returned for more training. The project prompted expansion into nearby counties and interest from other libraries. One participant with tremors benefited from an adaptive trackball mouse, showing how tailored tools can help older adults use technology with more confidence.
Weston, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Walk Audits
Description: Walk audits will evaluate pedestrian safety conditions along two busy roads connecting a senior center with a commercial area. The commission will share findings at community meetings to advocate for walkability improvements.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP West Virginia State Office
300 Summers Street
Suite 400
Charleston, WV 25301
United States