I’m sure you can name a few strange places you’ve picked up a book, turned on a Kindle or opened your iPad/smartphone reading app. Libraries Without Borders US is making sure ALL communities have access to these important digital resources and more, PLUS Wi-Fi connectivity with unconventional projects and innovative strategies.
This week, WifiForward hosted a Wi-Fi At Work episode in which John Windhausen, Executive Director at the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition spoke with Kat Trujillo, Deputy Director/Director of Education and Quality for Libraries Without Borders US, and highlighted a number of Libraries Without Borders’ best hits.
1. Out of a footlocker
Following Hurricane Maria’s impact, LWB US partnered with Link Puerto Rico to bring the Ideas Box to underserved communities. Ordinarily used only in humanitarian emergencies and disaster relief contexts, the durable box is equipped to serve as a Wi-Fi access point, is energy independent and holds a multitude of other supplies.
2. In a laundromat
The Wash and Learn Initiative (WALI) started off as a program primarily focused on early learning and literacy, and grew to provide other resources like access to the internet and laptops and tablets, as well as adult digital literacy training.
3. In a storm shelter
An estimated 22 million people live in manufactured housing communities (MHCs, pejoratively known as “trailer parks”) across the country, and LWB partnered with ROC USA to transform storm shelters into community centers with connectivity, technology and programming.
4. Out of a backpack
Gathering in shared spaces was not an option during the early height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but LWB distributed nearly 400 backpack kits filled with laptops, Wi-Fi hotspots and curated information on food pantries, rental assistance and legal aid.
“Providing [broadband] access is one piece, but making sure the access is relevant [to community needs] is really core to our mission and our work,” Trujillo said. Check out the full webinar here.