Alexander Hamilton Memorial Free Library (AHMFL) has received 50 laptops through the COVID-19 ARPA Digital Connectivity Technology Program (DCTP). This Project was financed in part by a grant from the federal Department of Treasury, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority. The laptops will expand the capacity for patrons to engage in work, telehealth, and education online.
The DCTP is one of several programs that received federal funding to aid states through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021. The program is administered through the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, which connects residents statewide with accessible broadband.
The laptops provided to AHMFL through this program will be available for patrons to use within the library. Bella Wagner, AHMFL’s social work intern, speaks to the library’s intent for the laptops. “Many services and resources are moving to digital platforms,” says Wagner. “As a hub for community resources and social service access, the library aims to support our patrons in the best ways possible. The availability of more laptops will allow patrons a wider range of access to our current services and developing programs.”
The new laptops will supplement the desktop computers available in AHMFL’s computer lab. “Some patrons may not have computer access at home, and some may have trouble navigating computer programs and the internet, requiring assistance from experienced library staff,” Wagner says. “Laptops allow our patrons to relocate to more private spaces in our library, other than our public computer room, to complete tasks like job applications and telehealth appointments. Having more computers will allow more patrons to use our computer services at once, rather than waiting for availability in the computer room.”
AHMFL has big plans for the new laptops. “They will be used for G.E.D Testing through Pearson Vue, PA CareerLink employment readiness programs, resume building, and they will be available for regular use for patrons who need accommodations that our desktop computers may not offer,” says Wagner.
“We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity to serve our community,” says Julene Diaz, library manager of AHMFL. “These laptops are crucial for the Career Readiness Program we are developing with Bella’s help. With these laptops, we’ll be able to help more patrons search for jobs, improve their resumes, and access job trainings. We are now poised to help our patrons thrive in their work.”
To learn more about AHMFL’s programs, donate to the library, or find your next read, go to ahmfl.org or visit AHMFL on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
