Farmington Libraries Collect Forms For Free Five-Year Laptop Loans

Farmington residents can submit eligibility forms for free, five-year laptop loans through The Farmington Libraries’ Laptop ConneCT Program. The libraries will contact applicants when laptops become available and coordinate required orientations.

Borrowers must be at least 18, hold a valid Farmington library card and lack a comparable internet-enabled computer or laptop at home. They must also participate in a qualifying assistance program, such as SNAP, CEAP/LIHEAP, Medicare or HUSKY Health. An adult may receive a laptop on behalf of a minor in the household.

Residents can complete the eligibility form online or pick up a paper copy at the Farmington Library, 6 Monteith Drive. Applicants provide contact information, their library card number and orientation availability. To obtain a library card, bring valid identification or a driver’s license and proof of a Farmington address.

The form asks for availability for required onboarding and a one-hour computer orientation. Choices run Monday through Saturday, with time windows of 10 a.m. to noon, noon to 3 p.m., 3 to 5 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. Only morning and early afternoon options are available Fridays and Saturdays.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection administers the statewide program with the Connecticut State Library, using American Rescue Plan Act funding. Laptops remain program property, and loans cannot be transferred to someone else. Devices do not include a Wi-Fi hotspot or financial assistance for internet service.

Each laptop carries a five-year warranty covering unlimited accidental damage, hardware support, batteries and mail-in repairs. Borrowers should promptly contact the warranty provider about damage; the library can supply contact information but will not diagnose or repair devices. Program questions can be sent to DEEP.Broadband@ct.gov.

Source: “Laptop ConneCT Program” (farmingtonlibraries.org)