Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Thursday the selection of nearly $66.4 million in essential community facilities projects in 33 states throughout the country that are being funded immediately with federal funds provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The Samuels Library in Front Royal, Virginia will receive $50,000. This is the third wave of Recovery Act community facilities investments announced by USDA.

“Communities throughout the country are benefiting from the Recovery Act, and by building or upgrading facilities such as libraries, public buildings and community centers, we are investing in the future of rural America,” says Vilsack. “These projects will advance the Administration's efforts to jump start the economy by creating jobs and economic development opportunities in hundreds of small towns.”

This ARRA funded project will allow the library to purchase new shelving, audio visual equipment, and a new phone system. The library provides a vital service in the community for those people that have lost their jobs and are seeking employment via the Internet.

The new library provides local citizens with computer services that they might not otherwise have access to for job searches and on-line employment applications. The equipment to be purchased will also enhance the educational services to the community.

President Barack Obama signed The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 into law February 17. It is designed to jump start the nation’s economy, create or save millions of jobs and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so the country can thrive in the 21st century.

The act includes measures to modernize our nation’s infrastructure, enhance energy independence, expand educational opportunities, preserve and improve affordable health care, provide tax relief, and protect those in greatest need.

More information about USDA’s Recovery Act efforts and about the Federal government’s efforts on the Recovery Act is available online.