Connecticut Libraries Lend Laptops to Eligible Residents
Residents who lack a home computer and receive certain state or federal benefits can borrow a laptop from participating libraries.
Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Financial Aid
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All six Region One libraries in Connecticut's Northwest Corner now lend laptops through the statewide Laptop ConneCT program to eligible residents. The program targets households that lack a sufficient home computer and that already take part in certain state or federal assistance programs.
Why it matters
For families who cannot afford a home computer, a library loan can make online applications, schoolwork and job searches possible without a purchase. The program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act's Capital Projects Fund, which is why it is being distributed through public libraries across the state.
Borrowers must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid library card from the municipality distributing the laptop, and lack access to a sufficient personal computer at home. They must also participate in SNAP, the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, Medicare or HUSKY Health.
The players
Connecticut State Library
The state agency that partners with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to run the Laptop ConneCT program, serving public libraries statewide.
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
The state agency that administers the Laptop ConneCT program, which is funded through federal American Rescue Plan Act money.
The details
Eligible residents apply through their local library, which has received an allocation of Dell Pro 16 laptops running Windows with built-in cameras for video calls. Each laptop comes with a power adapter, charging cable and carrying case, subject to availability. Each library has a digital navigator who visits weekly to help patrons use the equipment and get online, and the program is administered by the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection in partnership with the Connecticut State Library.
Timeline
Kent navigator Paul Bacsik is available at Kent Memorial Library on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Education Landscape
Laptop lending through public libraries is one way states have tried to narrow the home-computer gap that affects students completing schoolwork and applications for financial aid. Programs like Laptop ConneCT extend that effort into adult learning and household-level access, not only K-12 classrooms.
If you are an eligible Connecticut resident without a sufficient home computer, your local library may be able to lend you a laptop for long-term use. Ask the library directly about its allocation, its digital navigator schedule, and whether your existing benefits enrollment meets the program's participation requirements.
The takeaway
Public libraries can be a practical route to a computer for students and adult learners whose households cannot afford one. Check with your local library about eligibility and availability before assuming you need to buy equipment for schoolwork or financial-aid applications.
Further reading
For more on the aid programs that shape household costs, explore Financial Aid coverage on Scholaroo.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Lakeville Journal.
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