Upper Grand students without reliable internet access at home have a new way to access school work and do research in three Wellington County communities.
Public libraries in Drayton, Palmerston and Mount Forest have been equipped with Chromebook laptops that students can use in the library or borrow for seven days.
Through the library wireless network students can access their homework and assignments on UGCloud, and do research through UG2GO and the Internet.
In a partnership with Wellington County Library Services, the Upper Grand District School Board placed a set of five Chromebooks in each of the three libraries.
The laptops are for the exclusive use of UGDSB students of all ages.
“In recent years residents in Wellington County have had more opportunities to access residential broadband networks, but we know it is not available in all areas, nor is it affordable for all families,” said Brent McDonald, superintendent of education responsible for information technology.
Wellington County Library Services welcomes the opportunity to improve services for students.
“Wellington County libraries are pleased to partner with the school board in this new initiative,” said chief librarian Murray McCabe. “Our modern library facilities throughout the county have the latest in technology along with welcoming staff that will make this partnership a success.”
McDonald said, “We’re starting with three libraries as a pilot project. If our students make good use of the resources and our library partners agree, we’ll consider expanding the initiative to other libraries serving rural areas.”
The libraries chosen for the pilot have evening hours until 8pm three nights a week, and Saturday hours from 10am to 3pm.
