What Would YOU do with More Access to a Computer and the Internet? 

Federal Program Provides 150 Chromebook/Hotspot Kits to Help Library District Bridge the Digital Divide 

All 15 Library District Branches now have Chromebook + Wi-Fi Hot Spot Kits for patrons to check out and take home!  

Just like our books and movies, the Chromebook kits may be checked out for 3 weeks. They're perfect for getting school work done, writing that business plan, doing research, having fun online, accessing eBooks and audiobooks from the online library catalog,... whatever your mission.  

The Chromebooks and hotspots were purchased with financial support from the Federal Emergency Connectivity Fund Program that was designed to bridge the "homework gap" in rural areas.  These kits are meant to provide all students, school staff, and library patrons with the basic tools they need to engage in online learning and in so many other vital aspects of our increasingly digital lives. 

After several years of working to increase digital access, Library District Director Corey Christians jumped on the opportunity created by a change in E-rate law in May 2021.  The FCC's E-rate program (which has helped schools and libraries afford digital technology equipment and services since 1997) was approved to extend funding to services and equipment to be used outside library buildings in response to the pandemic.  This Emergency Connectivity Fund provided $117,905.50 for the equipment and Verizon Internet service for the first year. 

"The availability of these Chromebooks and wi-fi hot spots will help communities bridge the digital divide. The Library District is pleased to offer ten sets of these devices at each of our fifteen branch libraries." - Corey Christians, Library District Director 

 Chromebook kits are available now at your home Library District Branch.  You may call to reserve a kit or PLACE A HOLD ONLINE, but kits must be checked out and returned in person at the circulation desk.  They may not be requested at other libraries or returned in the book drop.   

The Library District is here to help you connect with the tools and resources you need to live your best life.  Visit us today!