Tablets and rocket hubs (portable wifi access ) are available to borrow from the Library!
The goal of the program is to bridge the digital divide separating those who can and can’t afford technology, by loaning devices and rocket hubs to those who need the items the most. The devices can be used to connect people to online services such as health care, counselling sessions, family and friends, job searching, accessing online books and other media, at-home schooling, and viewing local and international news.
A referral is required in order to access the devices. There are over 25 community organizations working with the Library to refer people to the program. The Library is open to working with other community partners as well. Please contact Tina Maronese at 684-6813 / tmaronese@tbpl.ca to indicate your interest in being a partner organization.
For more information about the program please go online at www.tbpl.ca/digitaldivide for details and the full list of community partners. Patrons can also call the Library at 345-8275 from Monday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm.
For those who relied on places like TBPL for social support (a social determinant of health) and digital access, the forced isolation of COVID-19 has had an even greater impact on their health. This project provides a virtual lifeline, potentially improving patrons’ emotional, mental and physical health. We are grateful for the support of the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund, the Thunder Bay Community Foundation and the United Way of Thunder Bay for funding this program.
