Later this year, American Fork Library patrons will be able to get into the library from home.

They'll be able to look at the library's catalog online, look at their library record, check the status of library materials and place holds on them.

They'll also be able to access research databases and library events.

The change is thanks to a grant from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The city received a grant of $47,314 it had to match with $17,550.

"This has been a goal we have worked toward for almost three years," Library director Sheena Parker said.

"It will be such a pleasure to offer our community increased services through this upgraded technology. This grant has made it possible for the library to come into the 21st century and offer learning and informational experiences, which were not possible before," Parker said.

"The upgrade will begin at the beginning of March and should be completed by the end of June."

The library will upgrade its automation system. Public access computers will be replaced with the latest computer models and the software on the machines will be the latest versions.

Dr. Robert Martin, on behalf of the federal IMLS, said, "This is the premier federal grant program for the nation's libraries. These grants help provide library service to America's rural and urban residents, particularly to children living in poverty. The grants also provide libraries with technology to keep the public connected to the important information they need and use."

Federal IMLS grants, which promote access to learning and information resources in all types of libraries, are awarded to the state Library Administrative Agencies under the Library Services and Technology Act. States provide at least $1 for every $2 of federal support.

The federal grants advance two primary goals: to provide technology and support for networking and resource sharing, and to provide service to people in rural and urban areas who have difficulty using a library, with a special emphasis on the underserved.

The total amount awarded in grants to state library administrative agencies in 2003 was more than $150 million. The federal percentage of the total cost of the American Fork Library project is 73 percent.

The IMLS, an independent federal agency, grows and sustains a "nation of learners" because learning is critical to both societal and individual success, according to its Web site.

More information is available at www.imls.gov.

This story appeared in The Daily Herald on page D1.