The program helps rural libraries offer internet access and financial education for their patrons.
Selected through a competitive application process, Storm Lake Public Library joins a group of 30 libraries across the country participating in the initiative.
Community Connect will begin at Storm Lake Public Library October 2. Starting on that date, five Verizon WiFi hotspots and five HP laptops will be available for check-out to the public. Checkout period is for up to seven days, with no grace period or automatic renewal. Hotspot/laptop checkouts will be available to library card holders age 18 and older.
One hotspot can be checked out per household at a time. The hotspots are capable of connecting multiple devices simultaneously.
“We are so proud to be selected to bring Community Connect to the Storm Lake Library,” said Library Director Elizabeth Huff. “We encourage community members to visit the library to check-out a WiFi hotspot or new laptop to bring home. We are also excited to offer resources on digital and financial literacy and will offer programs to help patrons establish at home internet connections with free tools from the FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program.”
The library will also receive a $2,000 cash grant to support public education programs such as household budgeting, internet safety, device technology and more. For more information on upcoming library programs, visithttps://www.stormlake.lib.ia.us, and follow Storm Lake Public Library on Facebook.
Community Connect: Fostering Digital Access is made possible by Capital One and the American Library Association. It is managed by ALA’s Public Programs Office in collaboration with the Public Library Association.
Photo: Library clerk Victoria Mero with the new hotspot and laptop offerings available for checkout at Storm Lake Public Library.