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Worcester Public Library to host statewide launch of MBI device program; will lend 400 devices to residents
Summary
Worcester Public Library will host the statewide Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) Connected in Online launch on April 29 and has been awarded 500 devices — 400 for direct lending to residents for one-year terms and 100 for community groups and training.
Worcester Public Library will host the statewide launch of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute Connected in Online program on Wednesday, April 29, library staff told the board. The library is one of 12 awardees and will receive 500 devices; 400 are intended for direct lending to individual residents for one-year terms and 100 will be distributed to community groups for training and technology support.
"We are one of 12 awardees of 500 devices for us to lend out to our community," Jason said, adding that "400 of those will be going directly to individuals in their homes for a lending period of 1 year at a time with automatic renewals." He emphasized that the devices are meant to expand access to telehealth, education and job opportunities.
The library will host a formal press conference at 10 a.m. and said it would circulate materials and logos once they are available. Library staff described a two-pronged approach: making devices available and coupling them with training and online learning tools, including a program called Northstar.
On distribution and eligibility, Jason said the library will run an intake application using LibWizard; applicants will indicate intended uses via simple fields. Household income will be used only if demand exceeds supply; in that event, the library plans to prioritize lower-income applicants. The library also said it will provide in-person assistance at terminals to help residents complete applications.
Tressa, who is leading implementation work, will coordinate local training and outreach with partner organizations, library staff said. The MBI asked the library to host the launch because the library is the largest public-library recipient of the award in the state, staff told the board.
The launch and device program aim to reduce digital-equity gaps by pairing hardware distribution with access to training and online skills tools. The library asked board members and partners to attend the April 29 announcement and said details about sign-up and distribution will follow in a post-event email.
The board did not take formal votes tied to the grant during the meeting; staff said next steps include finalizing logistics and public registration.
