September 4, 2020
Information Technology (IT) and Mississauga Library are working together to support student success this fall.
Through its Smart City framework, IT has teamed up with the library to repurpose 100 gently-used laptop computers. The City is donating the laptops to the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board and the Peel District School Board for distribution to at-risk families.
“As students return to learning this fall, they are using technology more now than ever,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “By making laptops available to those families in need, we are able to increase their access to technology and provide students with the resources they need to succeed and thrive at school.”
The laptop donation project is one of many resources the Library offers students. These include textbook and hotspot lending, virtual services and online reference support.
“Bridging the digital divide through equal access to technology is a priority,” said Jennifer Stirling, Acting Director, Mississauga Library. “The laptop donation project, supported with funding from the Library’s P. and L. Odette Charitable Foundation grant, is part of the City’s Community Recovery Framework. This framework focuses on providing programs and services that have a direct impact on the community’s quality of life.”
“The Smart City framework is a great fit for this collaborative effort,” said Shawn Slack, Director, Information Technology and Chief Information Officer (CIO). “As a Smart City, Mississauga is known for helping students succeed. From a city-wide network of free wireless hotspots, to open data and eduroam – the free education roaming service for post-secondary students – we are creating a Smart City for everyone.”
For more information about the Library’s programs and services, visit mississaugalibrary.ca and follow Mississauga Library on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
To learn more about Smart City, visit smartcity.mississauga.ca/.