Free laptops for eligible residents

By Ann Havemeyer

More Connecticut—and Norfolk—residents will soon have greater access to technology thanks to an innovative new program from the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

In August, DEEP announced the launch of Laptop ConneCT. This program, in partnership with the Connecticut State Library, aims to put laptops in the hands of state residents who need them most, expanding digital opportunity and connecting more people to education, employment, healthcare and other essential resources.

Over 130 public libraries in Connecticut have signed up to participate in this long-term lending program, including the Norfolk Library. In total, 3,685 laptops have been distributed; Norfolk Library has 10 available to residents that meet certain criteria. They must be 18 years old, have a valid Norfolk Library card and participate in one of the following assistance programs: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP); Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP); Medicare; or HUSKY Health (Medicaid/The Children’s Health Insurance Program).

The 10 Dell Pro16 computers with a Windows operating system will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The library is working with Tara Yard, social services director for the Town of Norfolk, who will confidentially determine a resident’s eligibility. Once that is established, residents will take their eligibility certification to the library where they will fill out an intake questionnaire and receive brief training from digital navigator Jennifer Lutris (see related article, this page). The laptop is the property of the state but the lending period is five years, and the laptop does not need to be returned. It comes with a full five-year warranty.

Laptop ConneCT is an approximately $7 million initiative, funded by the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund. For questions, contact Ann Havemeyer, Library Director.