Computers & Technology Help

Affordable Internet Program

Struggling to pay for internet service? The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal benefit program designed to help you afford the broadband access you need for work, school, healthcare, and more.

Visit acpbenefit.org to check if you qualify, apply, and find a provider near you.

If your household is eligible, you can receive:

  • A monthly discount on your internet bill (up to a $30 per month)
  • A one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer through a participating provider

This new long-term program will replace the previous temporary Emergency Broadband Benefit. Most households currently enrolled in that program will not have to take any action to continue receiving the $30 monthly benefit after the transition period ends on March 1, 2022. Learn more about the transition.

   
Posted by Aubrey D. on February 10, 2022
Computers & Technology Help    Connect    Library News   
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Learn Basic Computer Skills with Northstar Learning

The internet is everywhere, allowing you to work, play, and complete daily life tasks wherever there is WiFi. This is especially helpful in the age of physical distancing and mask-wearing.

For those with WiFi access, barriers may still exist. Some community members experience frustration with email and online forms, and concerns about internet safety, leaving them feeling increasingly isolated from social connections and workforce opportunities.

Do you have a friend or family member that could use a little help? VITAL's Northstar Online Learning teaches the basic computer skills needed to communicate using computers. Its free, self-paced courses offer step-by-step instruction, practice, and review for:

   
Posted by Aubrey D. on January 27, 2021
Computers & Technology Help    eLibrary    Learn    Library News    Lifelong Learning    Literacy    Tutoring    VITAL   
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Two Grants Fund Hotspots, iPads, and Diverse Books

A tween girl uses an iPad during a children's program.

A tween girl uses an iPad during a children's program.

We are pleased to share that the Library is the recipient of two grants to support access to digital resources in Monroe County. The City of Bloomington Information & Technology Services Department has awarded the Library a Digital Equity Grant of $10,500, and the Wahl Family Charitable Trust has gifted the Library $5,300.

“Providing equitable access to information is one of the Library’s most important goals and is reflective of our core mission to provide opportunities to read, learn, connect and create,” said Grier Carson, Associate Director. “One of the greatest challenges posed by the current public health crisis is our inability to reach each and every Library patron when physical access to the Library carries with it a number of health considerations. These grants will help us improve upon that.”

   
Posted by Aubrey D. on December 18, 2020
Accessibility    Computers & Technology Help    Connect    Create    Diversity    eBooks    eLibrary    Grants    Learn    Library News    Library of Things    Lifelong Learning    Literacy    Read   
Think Library    Adults    Teens    Kids   

Podcasting 101

Podcasting 101

Have you ever had an idea for a podcast and not known exactly where to begin? Looking for answers online turns up a variety of resources, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you see extensive lists of gear, software, and production techniques.

Fortunately, the Library is a great first step to learning the tools of the trade! The Library’s Digital Media Expert’s recommendation for anyone who asks about audio editing or making a podcast is Audacity, a free open-source audio-editing application.

   
Posted by Josh C. on October 5, 2020
Computers & Technology Help    Create   
Think Library    Adults    Teens    Level Up   
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