Case Memorial Library in Orange has announced that it will participate in Laptop ConneCT, a state initiative funded by the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection to help bridge the digital divide.
Through this program, qualifying Orange residents can borrow a laptop and bundled accessories for up to five years free of charge.
To qualify for a device, an applicant must be an Orange resident who is at least 18 years old and holds a valid Case Memorial Library card. Residents who need a library card can apply at the library by presenting a valid photo ID and proof of Orange residence.
Applicants must also participate in at least one of the following specific assistance programs: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, Medicare, or HUSKY Health. Due to limited supply, devices are restricted to one per household.
Eligible residents must apply in person at Case Memorial Library between Nov. 2 and 20. When applying, individuals must present their valid library card as well as an official letter of program approval or renewal from the Department of Social Services displaying valid dates for one of the qualifying programs.
If the library receives more applicants than there are available devices, recipients will be selected at random through a lottery system. Library staff will begin notifying selected applicants on Monday, Nov. 30. Recipients will then schedule an appointment to pick up their laptop and complete a brief skills orientation with a librarian to help them get started using their device effectively.