Prince george's county memorial library system in largo, maryland, will expand access to computer technology and the internet for patrons in this economically disadvantaged community, where…

The Prince George's County Memorial Library System in Largo, Maryland received a $106,000 project grant award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the National Leadership Grants program (CFDA 45.312) to expand digital equity and internet access. Through November 2021 to October 2022, the library system will administer a program allowing cardholders to check out laptops with internet hotspots for home use. A digital equity coordinator will oversee this and library staff will receive remote assistance training. The program is piloting at three branches and expanding to all 19 branches, responding to increased community needs during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing computer and internet access to support employment searches.

Prince george's county memorial library system in largo, maryland, will expand access to computer technology and the internet for patrons in this economically disadvantaged community, where approximately 36 percent of the county's residents do not have broadband internet access at home. A digital equity coordinator will administer a program through which library cardholders can check out laptops containing internet hot spots for home use. Library staff will receive training to remotely assist patrons with the devices and help them navigate job resources. The program is being piloted at three locations and will be expanded to all 19 branches. IT responds to community needs that have been exacerbated by covid-19 by giving people access to computers and the internet and helping them find employment.