As the coronavirus pandemic has forced more of people’s interactions behind screens, the Maricopa County Libraries is helping to make sure all county residents have access to a screen and to internet.
As of Monday, Maricopa County residents can check out a Chromebook laptop or a WiFi hotspot at any of the county’s 18 library locations for free. There will be 260 of each device in circulation through the Maricopa County Library District. The program is designed to bridge the “digital divide” that’s only been deepened by the pandemic, giving computer and internet access to those that might not be able to afford their own computer or live in an area where internet connection is sparse. It is the first program among libraries in the Valley that allows residents to take a computer home.
“The impact of the digital divide in our communities is more apparent than ever before,” stated Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jack Sellers in a news release. “Connected @ Your Library adds to the County’s efforts to build infrastructure for technology and information access in our community.”
