People without computer access will want to give a huge shout-out to the San Juan Island Community Foundation for supporting the Tech to Go pilot program. The San Juan Island Library now loans kits that include a Windows laptop computer with current Microsoft software and Wi-Fi hotspot. The grant expands the current Library program of two kits to five Laptop Computer kits so more people can take out a laptop computer for home use.

The San Juan Island Library couldn’t be more excited about reopening our doors to the public. While allowing 20 people to visit for 20 minutes at a time doesn’t restore full access to computers, the new Laptop Computer kits should help people with tasks that take longer to accomplish and enable people to use computers to connect with friends, and access information and entertainment.

The pilot program will enable the library to learn about managing a computer lending model over the next six months.

Financial support from the San Juan Community Foundation to procure equipment has really helped the Library achieve its mission of providing access to information for all, and it helps us bridge the digital divide.

Current Library hours are Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Patrons at high risk may visit the Library from 10-11 a.m. on Tuesdays. Masks are required. More information is available at www.sjlib.org.

Beth Helstien

San Juan Island