Ottawa Public Library helping out where it can during COVID-19
Posted Apr 24, 2020 08:43:00 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is delivering Chromebooks and a WiFi hotspot to Ottawa’s Youth Services Bureau (YSB) for its temporary isolation centre.
The isolation centre accommodates up to eight youth experiencing homelessness who may have, or are confirmed to have, COVID-19.
The library says Friday, the WiFi and devices should help provide some comforts and an opportunity to stay connected as they await test results or recover from illness in a managed situation that allows for physical distancing.
“We are pleased to have the tools to help youth in isolation so they can maintain their social networks, stay caught up on class work, and have something to do while recovering,” said Assistant Director of Community Services with YSB Mike Wade.
The library says its CEO Danielle McDonald has made it a priority to continue to offer library services online and explore ways OPL can support people and initiatives across the city, even though its 33 physical branches are closed.
“We are working with the City of Ottawa’s Health and Human Services Task Force and leveraging the library’s local links and partnerships to keep the community safe and strong in the most inclusive way possible,” she explains.
Last month OPL partnered with local non-profit ComputerWise to address shortages in medical equipment; sharing two MakerBots and one RoboBot from OPL’s Imagine Space to help make 3D visors for the FaceShield.
OPL has also participated in the COVID-19 Community Response Table meetings hosted by United Way to see how it can help. It also continues to connect with community organizations to find ways the library can bridge gaps with learning resources and technology so that all Ottawa residents can stay engaged and connected during the pandemic emergency.
