Over the past few days, I've spotted some interesting news stories like this and this about "The Connecting Families" program in the state of Alabama. It sets a great community service example and is a wonderful use of Skype. Through a partnership between the Alabama Public Library Service and Alabama Governor Bob Riley's ConnectingALABAMA Broadband Initiative, 100 libraries across the state will participate in a program that will help connect troops and their families who are thousands of miles apart.

Earlier this week, Tuscaloosa Public Library in Alabama kicked off its participation in the Connecting Families project. Three new Apple Mac computers, loaded with Skype software, were installed in the library to allow military families to communicate over video calls with family members in the U.S. armed forces.

"We're grateful not only for our troops but also for the families who serve by their side, even though thousands of miles often separate them," Gov. Bob Riley said in a press release. "Like our soldiers, the families sacrifice so much. Anytime we have an opportunity to help our brave troops and their families back home, we must take it."

My understanding is that Alabama is the only state today that offers such a program. I think Alabama is onto something big here, and sets a great example for other states. Being in the military can no doubt be a struggle, coupled with isolation being apart from family and children. We're proud and inspired to see that Skype can be used in such a way that brings comfort to military families in Alabama, giving them an opportunity to connect with loved ones overseas in meaningful ways.