Rutherford County Libraries Get $19,000 State Grant for New Computers

The Rutherford County Library System received a $19,000 federal-state technology grant, announced Sept. 28, to buy desktop computers, Chromeboxes and monitors for its branches.

The Rutherford County Library System is getting new computers. Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett announced on Sept. 28, 2026 that the system will receive a $19,000 technology grant, according to WGNS.

What the Grant Pays For

The money will buy desktop computers, Chromeboxes and monitors. The grant comes from the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), administered by the Tennessee State Library & Archives, a division of the Secretary of State's office. Hargett said the grant was secured with the Rutherford County Legislative Delegation.

"Updated technology allows them to better serve the evolving needs of patrons in communities across Tennessee," Hargett said, according to the report.

Part of a Statewide Round

Tennessee awarded $508,522 in technology grants to 99 libraries in this cycle. All of the grants require matching local funds.

Where to Use Library Computers

Rutherford County's libraries offer public computers for job searches, homework, printing and government forms. Local branches include:

• Linebaugh Public Library in downtown Murfreesboro
• Smyrna Public Library
• The Murfreesboro library guide and Smyrna library guide

Library programs are also on the events calendar, including the Girls Who Code club at Linebaugh. For background on the system's leadership dispute, see the library director lawsuit report.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the Rutherford County library technology grant?

$19,000, announced Sept. 28, 2026.

What will the grant buy?

Desktop computers, Chromeboxes and monitors.

Where does the money come from?

The federal Library Services and Technology Act, administered in Tennessee by the Tennessee State Library & Archives.

Do the grants need local matching funds?

Yes. All of the grants in this round require local matching funds, according to WGNS.

Source: WGNS Radio.

*Image is an AI-generated illustration, not a photo of a Rutherford County library.*