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Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) recently launched the new Tablet Lending Program — an important step forward to bridge the digital divide in Miami-Dade County and expand access to technology and the internet across our community.
Library cardholders now can check out an eight-inch Samsung Android tablet with free built-in wireless internet access and Wi-Fi capability to use for work, school and personal browsing and to access helpful resources. Tablets are loaned for 30 days and come complete with a keyboard case, power adapter and Micro USB cables. Each tablet also is preloaded with several popular apps, including social media and meeting apps, and library apps for online learning, eBooks, audiobooks, movies, music and more.
According to U.S. Census 2015-19 estimates, more than 23 percent of Miami-Dade County households do not have a broadband internet subscription and more than 10 percent do not have a computer.
“We know that families who don’t have access to the internet and computers or mobile devices are at a disadvantage at work, school and accessing basic services, especially during COVID-19,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
“The Tablet Lending Program at our Miami-Dade public libraries is an investment in technology that gives residents a better opportunity to tap important resources that will help them thrive and bring us closer to bridging the digital divide in our community,” Mayor Levine Cava added.
“We’ve always known how important it is for everyone in our community to be able to connect digitally, especially during this past year when we’ve all had to find ways to come together through technology,” said Ray Baker, Miami-Dade Public Library System director.
“Now, in addition to using public computers and accessing the internet and Wi-Fi at their local public library, the Tablet Lending Program gives residents the ability to connect to the internet from home, or just about anywhere, at any time. All they need is a library card.”
Patrons can check the availability of tablets at their nearest branch by searching “Samsung tablet” in the library catalog online at www.mdpls.org or calling any library location. MDPLS cardholders may check out one tablet each in person at any branch library.
Residents who do not have a library card can sign up for one by visiting at any library location or registering for an eCard (electronic card) online at eCard.mdpls.org. eCard holders will be asked to verify their address at the branch prior to checking out a tablet.
More information about the Tablet Lending Program is available online at www.mdpls.org/tablet-lending or through the library’s free mobile app available for Apple and Android devices.
For questions and assistance, patrons may send email to customercare@mdpls.org or call 305-375-2665.
The Tablet Lending Program was funded under the provisions of the DLIS Florida CARES Act from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Florida’s DLIS Florida CARES Act program is administered by the Department of State’s Division of Library and Information Services.
Learn more about the Miami-Dade Public Library System at www.mdpls.org.
