Northwest Corner Libraries Lend Laptops to Residents
All six Region One libraries in Connecticut's Northwest Corner now lend Dell laptops through the statewide Laptop ConneCT program.
Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Financial Aid
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Six Region One libraries in Connecticut's Northwest Corner began offering laptops through the Laptop ConneCT program, which lets eligible residents borrow devices for long-term use. Each library received an allocation of Dell Pro 16 laptops and has a weekly digital navigator.
Why it matters
The program targets residents who lack a sufficient personal computer at home, giving them access to devices for work, school and online services. Its eligibility rules tie borrowing to participation in state and federal assistance programs.
Borrowers must be at least 18, hold a valid library card from the distributing municipality, and participate in SNAP, the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP, Medicare or HUSKY Health. Each laptop comes with a power adapter, charging cable and carrying case, subject to availability.
The players
Connecticut State Library
The Connecticut State Library is the state agency that partners with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to administer the Laptop ConneCT program.
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is the state agency that administers the Laptop ConneCT program alongside the State Library.
The details
Each Dell Pro 16 laptop runs Windows and has a built-in camera for video calls. The program is administered by the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection in partnership with the Connecticut State Library, and is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act's Capital Projects Fund.
Timeline
Kent navigator Paul Bacsik is available Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kent Memorial Library.
Big Picture
The program's funding traces to the American Rescue Plan Act's Capital Projects Fund, which Congress created in 2021 to support broadband and digital infrastructure. Connecticut is using that federal money to extend device access directly to households rather than only building network capacity.
Eligible residents must be at least 18, hold a valid library card from their municipality, and lack sufficient home computer access while participating in a qualifying assistance program. Interested residents should contact their local library about laptop availability, since devices are provided subject to availability.
The takeaway
Residents who rely on SNAP, HUSKY Health or energy assistance can ask their local library whether a laptop is available for long-term borrowing. Checking eligibility before visiting can save a trip if a library card or qualifying program enrollment is missing.
Further reading
Explore more on Financial Aid programs available to Connecticut residents.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Lakeville Journal.
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