The Ottawa Public Library (OPL) staff realize that there are some residents in the community who don’t have access to computers or the internet. For that reason, the OPL has put in place safe access to printing, WiFi and computers, during the current provincial stay-at-home order. This will assist in addressing the disparity in access to technology in our community. As one of the largest providers of public computing in Ottawa, the library is a lifeline for printing and internet for many.
Chromebooks are also now available for 3-hour loans with outdoor WiFi access at the Stittsville Branch. Other library branches within our area also offering the loans are: Beaverbrook, Hazeldean and Carp.
Chromebooks must be reserved due to provincial regulations. Reservations can be made up to 3 days in advance via the OPL website or by calling InfoService at 613-580-2940. Printing services are available at all open OPL branch locations – customers can submit a print request using the form on the OPL website.
COVID-19 has exacerbated many social issues, including the disparity in access to technology and the internet. Many library customers have limited to no access to computers, printers, or reliable internet, which means they cannot complete essential tasks such as booking a vaccine appointment, applying for jobs, or access government services online.
To help keep OPL customers and employees safe, and to be in full compliance with the stay-at-home emergency orders in effect, the Stittsville Branch is providing curbside at the entrance door and online services only. Public computers inside the branch are no longer accessible. Curbside returns and holds pickups for library cardholders can be made during opening hours only, but you must line-up at the entrance and a mask is mandatory when outside.
The OPL website is available 24/7 for virtual browsing of our catalogue, varied digital resources and a wide range of virtual programs. Reservations can be made via the OPL website www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca or by calling InfoService at 613-580-2940.
for people who do not have access to the internet, but you must reserve 3 days in advance via the website. Something wrong!!!!
The Library also included the phone number to call for reservations which was included in the article. (Reservations can be made up to 3 days in advance via the OPL website or by calling InfoService at 613-580-2940.)