OTTAWA - Ottawa Public Library (OPL) today delivered eight Chromebooks and a WiFi hotspot to Ottawa’s Youth Services Bureau (YSB) for the temporary isolation centre YSB has set up in partnership with CHEO. The isolation centre will accommodate up to eight youth experiencing homelessness who may have or are confirmed to have COVID-19. The WiFi and the devices should help provide some comforts and the opportunity to stay connected as they await test results or recover from illness in a managed situation that allows for physical distancing.
Mike Wade, Assistant Director of Community Services with YSB, thanked OPL for its partnership in “supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our community. 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.”
Danielle McDonald, CEO of OPL 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.”
Matthew Luloff, Chair of the Ottawa Public Library Board and Councillor for Orléans Ward said: “The Library delivers vital services and programming to our community. Along with promoting literacy and creativity, these initiatives demonstrate how OPL builds community and ensures our vulnerable residents are not left behind.”
Last month OPL started partnering 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. OPL 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.