Norwalk Public Library To Offer Long-Term Laptop Loans

NORWALK, CT — The Norwalk Public Library will offer Dell Pro 16 laptop loans to patrons for six months beginning Oct. 5, the library announced this week.

According to a news release provided by the library, this initiative, derived from a partnership between the Connecticut State Library and Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, "aims to help residents who may not otherwise have equipment to help with tasks including, but not limited to, job searching, education and workforce training, everyday communication and online tasks, plus telehealth appointments."

The library will receive Dell Pro 16 laptops with five-year comprehensive warranty coverage, program guidance and implementation materials, plus access to a limited number of protective carrying cases, wired computer mice, wired external keyboards, headsets with microphones, styluses and external webcams, according to NPL.

To qualify for a free long-term laptop loan through the NPL, patrons must meet the following requirements: be at least 18 years old, live in Norwalk and have a valid Norwalk library card and participate in at least one qualifying program like SNAP, HUSKY Health (Medicaid), Medicare or the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP), according to NPL.

"I worked with the Connecticut State Library 2021-2022 on their digital inclusion coalition for digital equity across the state," Library Director Sherelle Harris said in a news release. "This was around the time the Dalio Foundation hardwired 1,000 homes in Norwalk with free high-speed internet access through a public-private partnership with Altice. It was a wonderful gesture extended to families not able to afford connectivity. Thereafter, we worked to get the word out that our WIFI access extends just outside of both of our library locations and about the WIFI hotspots we offered at the time. This new venture puts devices directly in the hands of those who do not have a working, personal computer at home."

Dawn La Valle, director of the CT State Library Division of Library Development, said public libraries have played a critical role in strengthening the digital equity ecosystem for decades by providing free computer access and support.

"The State Library's recent Regional Digital Navigator Project amplified libraries' role," La Valle said in a news release, "disseminating devices and teaching clients the skills to use them and to meaningfully engage in today's increasingly digital world. With Laptop ConneCT, Connecticut continues to expand device distribution and internet access for residents through their trusted public library."

Residents seeking more general information on the Laptop ConneCT Program can contact Library Director Sherelle Harris at 203-899-2780 (ext. 15123), according to the library.

"Technology's rapid advances make it necessary for many tasks in our lives, and lack of access can hold households back," Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff said in a news release. "I'm proud Connecticut is investing in its communities and its families, giving residents new opportunities to pursue education, work, leisure and more."

More information is available at norwalkpl.org.