History

The Bridge saw its beginning in April of 1999, when Oberlin Community Services convened a small group of citizens to discuss the social and educational problems faced by local residents. By November, it was clear that the most pressing problem Oberlin faced was a growing socioeconomic gap in access to modern computer and technology services. The group began to call themselves the Oberlin Community Technology Committee. In November, the CTC hosted a dinner attended by a diverse group of more than 75 Oberlinians in order to discuss strategies to address this digital divide. The Bridge grew out of the positive energy and suggestions put forth during this event.

The Bridge officially opened on July 10, 2000 as host to its inaugural My First Computer Camp for young children. The public computer lab opened shortly after, in conjunction with the start of free basic computer classes for adults.

In 2002, The Bridge formally became a division of the Oberlin Public Library. The Bridge received the American Library Association’s Library of the Future Award in 2005 and was recognized as the “Best Library Link” by Reader’s Digest in 2006.

Under the leadership of Director Stephanie Jones, The Bridge continues to grow and prosper. Currently open for drop-in computing six days a week and offering a rotating schedule of educational classes, The Bridge strives to meet the computer needs of all members of the Oberlin community.