Hundreds benefit as digitech library branches out

Council leader Neil Emmott (centre) at a digitech library session, with residents and council staff

A further 300 digital devices have been loaned to households through Rochdale Borough Council’s innovative digitech library.

Hundreds more digitally excluded residents now have free access to laptops, internet data and support to get online.

The digitech library is a partnership between the council, the voluntary sector and grassroots organisations to help tackle digital exclusion and poverty.

The scheme offers a three-month loan service of reconditioned laptops and tablets to help residents and community groups in the borough with digital training.

Over 10,000 devices have now been donated or loaned to local schools and residents through the initiative, which began in 2020 to provide digital support for people during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Councillor Neil Emmott, leader of the council, said: “The digitech library embraces the timeless values of cooperation, combined with a true pioneering spirit and partnership working to reach out to residents who are digitally excluded. The latest donation of 300 laptops underlines the scheme’s success as, over two years on from its launch, it goes from strength to strength.”

He added: “I know how beneficial this initiative is for residents in my ward of West Middleton, as well as other neighbourhoods across the borough. The support networks we established during the pandemic underline just how strong and resilient our community response has been, with innovative schemes in place to reduce inequalities, tackle digital exclusion and reach out to residents and communities most in need.”

Referrals for a digital device or to enquire about training opportunities, can be made to DTL@rochdale.gov.uk or by phoning 01706 926653.