Alma Public Library Receives Virtual Living Room Grant

• Grant Awarded: Alma Public Library received $4,481 through the Virtual Living Room Grant.
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• Supporting Veterans: Funding supports veterans’ access to telehealth and technology.
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• Community Partnerships: Collaboration with local veteran and community organizations.
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• Program Timeline: Initiative begins September 2026.
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• Learn More: Virtual Living Room Grant program details.
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Alma Public Library was awarded a Virtual Living Room Grant through the Foundation for Rural Service, sponsored by Cochrane Co-op Telephone,
in the amount of $4,481.

The Virtual Living Room Grant program is designed to support veterans in utilizing advanced technology,
such as telemedicine appointments, particularly in communities located 100 miles or more from a VA hospital, clinic, or campus.

This grant will assist the Alma Public Library in supporting and serving area veterans by improving access to health-related technology and digital services.

Being located over 100 miles from three VA Medical Centers—including Eau Claire and Tomah, Wisconsin, and Minneapolis, Minnesota—positions
the library to play a vital role in connecting veterans to care and resources. The Buffalo County Veterans Services Office, which serves 1,934 veterans, has confirmed the need for these services.

The Alma Public Library looks forward to building and expanding partnerships with:

• Alma American Legion
• Cochrane Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Lodge
• Buffalo County Veterans Services Office
• Alma Area Schools
• Buffalo/Pepin County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)

Through these partnerships, the library will present health literacy and telehealth programming,
supported by promotional materials and special presentations or events. A dedicated laptop, keyboard, and mouse will be purchased to ensure equipment is always available for veteran use. Collaboration with schools and the ADRC will further expand technology support, education resources, and peer support.

This initiative will begin in September 2026.

Planned activities include:

• Kickoff and promotional events at the library, Alma American Legion, and Cochrane VFW
• Additional presentations at meetings and events from September through February
• Development and distribution of promotional materials through community partners and local organizations
• Ongoing outreach, including individual volunteer engagement, over a 12-month period

Learn more about the Virtual Living Room Grant program through the Foundation for Rural Service:

Virtual Living Room Grant Program (opens in a new tab)