Webcams For Families Of Soldiers Getting Little Use

RUSSELLVILLE, Ala. (AP) - Webcam-equipped computers for military
families to communicate with loved ones in Iraq and Afghanistan
have gotten little use in Alabama libraries so far.

Computers were placed in 112 libraries across Alabama as part of Gov. Bob Riley's Connecting Families program to keep those serving
overseas in touch with their families. But a 20-inch screen iMac at
the Russellville Public Library has not been used for nearly three
months, and the TimesDaily reported Tuesday that response appears
to be light elsewhere in the state.

Alabama Public Library Service director Rebecca Mitchell said it
will take awhile for people to learn and use the technology.

And even though use has been light at Houston Love Memorial
Library in Dothan, in one emotional meeting via computer, a mother
saw her son for the first time in a year.

The webcam equipped computers can be found at libraries in Atmore, Brewton, Fairhope, Foley, Mobile, Robertsdale and Satsuma. Click here for the list.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)