Chromebooks now available in 25 public libraries for Upper Grand students

For Immediate Release
November 6, 2015

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GUELPH, Ontario – An innovative idea to bridge the digital divide in Upper Grand communities has expanded to reach even more students.

The Upper Grand District School Board now has Chromebooks for student use in 25 public libraries across the district.

The program first launched in April at three pilot sites within the Wellington County library system: Drayton, Palmerston and Mount Forest.

It has since grown to include all 25 library branches that serve our region, which entails 14 branches in Wellington County, seven branches in Guelph, two in Orangeville as well as the Shelburne Public Library and Grand Valley Public Library.

Each public library branch has been outfitted with five Chromebooks that are available exclusively for Upper Grand students to access and complete their homework and assignments.

Not all regions in the Upper Grand have the same access to residential broadband networks. Internet access is not always available or affordable for all families. Many rely heavily on public Internet services, such as those offered in libraries.

The Chromebooks program aims to provide equity of access to the Internet and technology for all students in the board and also ensures students won’t have to wait in line to use a computer in their library.

Students can use the laptops in the libraries, or take them out for a period of time. Check with your local library for loan period details.

The board is thrilled to be partnered with all of the public libraries in our region to help support our students.

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For more information:
Heather Loney, Communications and Community Engagement Officer
519-822-4420 ext.725
[email protected]

Categories: News