Security software, other library purchases on hold in Terrebonne and Lafourche

Librarians in Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes say the loss of $23,000 in technology money from the state is forcing them to put off plans for software upgrades, such as Internet security programs, and hardware purchases, such as electronic readers.

The Houma Courier reports that Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes lost $11,500 each from the State Aid to Public Libraries program, the same amount trimmed for Louisiana's other 62 parishes.

While the money is chiefly used for technology locally, as it is many other areas, state law allows it to be spent on "collection materials" like trade and academic publications as well.

Mary Cosper LeBoeuf, director of the Terrebonne Parish Library System, said she had planned to use the money for software upgrades, enhanced firewalls and computer replacements.