Surrey Libraries’ Chromebook Lending Project Promotes Tech Literacy

Surrey Libraries has been busy promoting technology literacy and reducing barriers to technology access in the community through the recent launch of their Chromebook Lending Project (CLP) initiative.  

Surrey Libraries began the CLP in 2021. The Library loans Chromebook laptops to community partner organizations to help their clients find employment, connect them with their community to reduce isolation, or help them learn English, among other uses.  

“Surrey Libraries noticed a gap in access to devices both before and during the pandemic,” noted Jenny Fry, director of learning, programs, and partnership with Surrey Libraries. “The provincial government provided one-time funding to public libraries for digital literacy initiatives, and we used the funds to launch this program. We’re very pleased that it’s been so successful.”  

Currently, seven local non-profit organizations are participating in the CLP, including Options Community Services Society, DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society, Umoja Operation Compassion Society, Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS) Society, Brella Community Services Society, Sources Community Resources Society, and S.U.C.C.E.S.S.  

These partner agencies have been using the laptops supplied by Surrey Libraries in a variety of ways to help newcomers and others in the community gain access to technology and improve their digital literacy skills. 

S.U.C.C.E.S.S., has been using the Chromebooks to help their clients attend English language learning classes, online courses, and community connection activities.  

“We think this initiative has been a great opportunity for clients with limited access to computers and it had a huge impact during their settlement integration in Canada,” said Massi Moosavi, outreach services manager at S.U.C.C.E.S.S. “By having the Chromebooks, the clients have been able to attend LINC classes, communicate with different agencies to address their settlement needs and also connect with the community by attending virtual activities for themselves and their families.” 

Options clients have similarly benefitted from the CLP, as the loanable laptops have enabled them to participate in online English classes, information sessions and generally improve their computer skills, particularly during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic where many organizations had to suspend in-person technology services.  

“The computer was very helpful because I was able to do my ceremony and oath of citizenship virtually without any obstacles.” said Options client, Alma Gabriela Bowles.  

Loree McDougall, program director at Umoja said, “Clients are eager to learn how to navigate a computer so our digital literacy sessions within the Literacy & Life Skills program are a big success.”  

Surrey Libraries staff also provide individual technology help and instruction on using the loanable Chromebooks. The computers also come with basic written use instructions in English, Spanish, and Arabic.  

Surrey Libraries is continuing the Chromebook Lending Project as it’s one of the many ways that the Library promotes literacy and supports equitable access to technology in the community. 

Those interested in borrowing a Chromebook need to be at least 19 years of age, live in Surrey, have access to Wi-Fi, and be clients of one of the partner non-profit organizations.