Distribution events scheduled at each of the library’s 16 locations now through June
Linthicum, MD (January 24, 2024) - County Executive Steuart Pittman and the Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL) today launched a program that will distribute 7,000 Chromebook devices to eligible county residents in an effort to close the digital divide. Through a grant awarded to Anne Arundel County by Maryland’s Connected Devices Program under the State Department of Housing and Community Development, the initiative will connect under-resourced households with a free device as part of the state’s digital equity and inclusion efforts.
“With our students participating in virtual learning and many families working remotely, closing the digital divide has become increasingly important,” said County Executive Pittman. "I want to thank AACPL for their continued partnership in initiatives that help empower our communities by increasing access to important tools and resources.”
Qualifying county residents, 18 years and older, can receive one Chromebook per household as part of the program. Eligible households include:
those with a current household income below 200% of the federal poverty level or
those currently enrolled or participating in approved government assistance programs, such as:
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Medicaid
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program
Received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year
Acceptable forms of proof of Anne Arundel County residency and identity can be found on the library’s website.
“Libraries are community connectors. We use our resources and partnerships to help people live better lives and build stronger communities,” said AACPL CEO Skip Auld. “We are proud to work with Anne Arundel County to put these devices in the hands of those who need them most.”
The launch event took place at the Linthicum Library where appointment slots were filled, and library staff were projected to distribute more than 200 Chromebooks. Distribution events will be held at each of the library’s 16 locations now through June. For more information about the connected devices program, including a list of upcoming distribution events and eligibility requirements, visit https://www.aacpl.net/
Residents can also learn more about the library’s technology resources including free Wi-Fi hotspots, assistive technology and laptops for borrowing, available to all cardholders, at aacpl.net/services/technology.
A few of the more than 200 Chromebook available to eligible residents during the distribution event.
County Executive Pittman distributes a Chromebook to an eligible resident.
