Northern Essex Community College’s Laptop Lending Program is more than doubling in size, thanks to a generous grant program from the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s (MassTech) Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI). The Healey-Driscoll Administration and MBI recently announced the distribution of nearly 27,000 internet-enabled devices through the Connected and Online Program to organizations around the Commonwealth. The devices, including laptops, tablets and desktop computers, will be used in public spaces such as schools, libraries and learning centers, or incorporated into free-to-borrow lending programs.

Fifty-five laptops will now be added to the Laptop Lending Program at the Northern Essex Library.

“Before this grant, we managed 44 loaner laptops, which have been consistently at full circulation, so these additional 55 Dell laptops extend our ability to outfit nearly 100 NECC students with productivity technology that they can use to complete coursework, access mental and physical health services, and apply and interview for jobs,” said NECC Associate Dean of Library & Learning Commons Matthew Bodie.

More than half of the NECC students who utilize the laptop lending program live in Lawrence. Bodie notes that data shows many residents in the city experience disadvantages in digital equity, falling 21% below the state average for households that have a laptop or desktop computer. These additional laptops will help close that digital equity gap and enhance student outcomes.

Students interested in borrowing a laptop can visit either A-330 Haverhill Campus, Bentley Library or L-009 Lawrence Campus Library, Dimitry Building. Laptops are also available on-site for the general public. More information is available on the webpage.

About the Connected and Online Program
Funded through the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund, the Connected and Online Program is a $28.5 million initiative that will provide Massachusetts-based organizations with 26,368 devices, including laptops, tablets and desktop computers. In addition, more than 20,000 pieces of supporting equipment, including monitors, assistive technology and remote patient monitoring tools, will be made accessible to more than 200 of these organizations statewide, including nonprofits, hospitals, libraries, and elder and youth aid organizations. Devices will be used in public spaces such as schools, libraries and learning centers, or incorporated into free-to-borrow lending programs.

“Massachusetts residents rely on the internet every day to find work, take classes, access health care and build stronger community ties,” said Governor Maura Healey. “The Connected and Online Program helps residents improve their lives by equipping them with the capacity to directly access services and opportunities.”

“The Connected and Online Program is an example of how Massachusetts is focused on expanding economic opportunity for all our residents,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “By supporting local organizations that serve as anchors for connection and learning, the program meets residents where they are and invests in communities.”

The Connected and Online Program is designed to increase access to education, workforce development and health care services with a particular focus on Gateway Cities and rural communities.  Devices will be offered through lending programs or at locations accessible to the public. Organizations will conduct public outreach to notify people of opportunities to borrow and use devices.

About the Massachusetts Broadband Institute at MassTech
A division of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) is working to extend high-speed internet access and availability across the state. To achieve this, MBI uses state and federal funding to launch infrastructure expansion programs that target areas of the state that lack high-speed internet access as well as digital equity programs that tackle barriers to internet adoption and increase availability, addressing critical issues around affordability, enhanced public Wi-Fi, the need for internet-enabled devices, and digital literacy training.

Learn more at broadband.masstech.org.

Source: Massachusetts Broadband Institute at MassTech (MBI)