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FAIRMONT - Last year, the Martin County Library was fortunate to receive a "Young Explorer Learning Center" through the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation. This year, branches in Sherburn, Truman and Welcome are also receiving the children's computer systems.

These computer systems are geared toward 3- to 7-year-olds and have no Internet connection. Instead, the systems place an emphasis on literacy and school readiness. The programs and games focus on math, reading, science, time and geography.

"It also helps kids become more familiar with technology, because today kids being comfortable with technology is essential," said Martin County Library director Jenny Jepsen.

The systems are similar to computers at the ECFE and Head Start classes.

"The kids get excited when they see it here because they've seen it there and they can use it here, too," Jepsen said. "The parents can work with the kids on it. We've always offered good service for adults with computer use, but now we can also offer one geared towards kids and help them learn at the same time."

The systems, donated by IBM, are worth nearly $2,100 apiece.

"If we purchased these ourselves, the cost would be detrimental," Jepsen said. "They see it as an investment in early childhood, and we see that as one of the goals of the library, too. Needless to say, we're very grateful for this from IBM and the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation."

The Truman branch has already received its "Young Explorer" system, with Sherburn and Welcome soon to follow. Each branch hosts an event to debut the new system and bring awareness.

"We want to let everyone know this is available for the kids for use anytime the library is open," Jepsen said.