WiFi on Wheels pilot service is part of Internet Access Initiative: Bridging the Digital Divide, a project which will expand to include WiFi extension at libraries, and WiFi hotspots for check out. For the pilot, one vehicle will provide broadband for up to 150 users each within a 300-yard radius and will be parked at pre-designated locations each week.
The WiFi on Wheels pilot program will visit Cypress, La Habra, La Palma, Lake Forest, Midway City, San Juan Capistrano, Stanton, and Westminster.
OC PUBLIC LIBRARIES LAUNCHES WIFI ON WHEELS PILOT PROGRAM
TO BRING INTERNET ACCESS TO LOW BROADBAND COMMUNITIES
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (October 9, 2020) – In direct response to the digital divide augmented by the COVID-19 pandemic, OC Public Libraries is launching WiFi on Wheels, a new mobile internet pilot program that will increase internet access across Orange County communities.
WiFi on Wheels is part of the County’s Internet Access Initiative: Bridging the Digital Divide, a larger project which includes WiFi extensions at County libraries and WiFi hotspots for check out. With assistance from OC Information Technology, OC Public Libraries will expand access to job searching, online school learning, and leisure activities in an extraordinary way.
“Internet access, adoption, and training are essential to creating digital equity for Orange County’s diverse populations,” said Vice Chairman Andrew Do, First District Supervisor. “Libraries are the backbone of society and this new service will benefit many residents who currently do not have access to WiFi from their homes, from children needing to do schoolwork to those searching for jobs.”
The County’s commitment to technology access has been a long-lasting effort and response in bridging the digital divide Internet access is more important than ever for residents to stay updated on employment opportunities, learn the latest health and public safety information, and maintain community connections.
Through WiFi on Wheels, OC Public Libraries will identify and bring internet connectivity to low broadband neighborhoods throughout the County. Library staff will park a County vehicle with a branded WiFi on Wheels trailer at pre-designated locations each week to provide broadband for up to 150 users within a 300-yard radius. OC Public Libraries outreach staff will be present to answer questions, provide information about library services, and register patrons for library cards. Children and job search books will also be available from the vehicle in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
The WiFi on Wheels pilot program will launch with neighborhoods in Midway City and Westminster, and expand to Stanton, La Habra, La Palma, and San Juan Capistrano in the coming months.
Akick-off event will take place at the Westminster Library located at 8180 13th Street, Westminster, CA 92683 on Tuesday, October 20, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Westminster Library is the first branch of OC Public Libraries to extend WiFi beyond library walls and check out wireless hotspots for library cardholders. Families are encouraged to stop by and check out digital library services, take a photo with Rita the Zebra, and other giveaways, while supplies last. Social distance and safety guidelines will be followed.
OC Public Libraries’ WiFi on Wheels will officially hit the road starting on Tuesday, October 27, and be available near the following locations[1]:
DeMille Elementary
Address: 15400 Van Buren Street, Midway City, CA 92655
Date: Tuesday, October 27
Times: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Fryberger Elementary
Address: 6952 Hood Drive, Westminster, CA 92683
Date: Wednesday, October 28
Times: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m.– 4 p.m.
Schmitt Elementary
Address: 7200 Trask Avenue, Westminster, CA 92683
Date: Thursday, October 29
Times: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Willmore Elementary
Address: 7122 Maple Street, Westminster, CA 92683
Date: Friday, October 30
Times: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Sid Goldstein Freedom Park
Address: 14180 All American Way, Westminster, CA 92683
Date: Saturday, October 31
Times: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
For more information about the WiFi on Wheels program and updates on OC Public Libraries’ services, visit ocpl.org.
[1] Times and locations subject to change. For most current program information please visit us at OCPL.org.
Stella is all about the public she serves. She has been especially helpful to her ESL patrons and has more than a few thriving Conversation groups. She herself, provides all the adult programming at her branch including multiple bookclubs and a monthly Writer's retreat. Stella was also instrumental in bringing Genealogy programming to OCPL and offered many of the programs herself.
Stella's creativity and sense of innovation, is best described in her efforts to keep the ESL classes going strong at her branch. Stella recognized the growing need for ESL in Lake Forest, as well as the need to keep the momentum going with the existing students. As soon as virtual book groups became available, she had her ESL classes Zooming away!
When bookclubs had to stop meeting due to COVID, Stella maintained communication with those members for whom the bookclub was the highlight of their month. One member who was so sad to move out of state, has now rejoined the group via Zoom. Simply put, Stella is an empathic, committed professional who is passionate about librarianship.
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (September 18, 2020) -- With school looking different this year, OC Public Libraries’ literacy program, OC READ / Families for Literacy (OC READ), will be launching a series of Back-to-School events to support distance learning.
“The County understands the need for literacy and family engagement are important in building a foundation for learning,” said Chairwoman Michelle Steel, Second District Supervisor. “The goal of the Back-to-School events is to help support the community and encourage a culture of reading and learning for the entire family.”
OC READ offers literacy assistance to adults and their families, and the Back-to-School events are aimed to promote literacy and help create “home libraries” to support student learning.
“Distance learning has been challenging for many parents and students,” said Vice Chairman Andrew Do, First District Supervisor. “Now more than ever, it is important that we provide essential support services to our communities through our local county libraries.”
The Back-to-School events will take place from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the parking lot at the following library locations and dates:
• Westminster Library: Tuesday, September 22
• La Palma Library: Wednesday, September 23
• Stanton Library: Thursday, September 24
• Garden Grove Main Library: Tuesday, September 29
• Garden Grove Chapman Library: Wednesday, September 30
• La Habra Library: Thursday, October 1
“These Back-to-School events are part of the creative community outreach efforts OC Public Libraries is initiating to ensure they stay connected with their users,” said Supervisor Donald Wagner, Third District.
The Back-to-School events will include free books and crafts provided by OC Public Libraries staff to families while they remain safely in their vehicles. Families may also catch a glimpse of the libraries’ mascot, Rita Book the zebra, who will be making special appearances throughout. A video demonstration of the take-home craft as well as a variety of virtual programs will be available for families to enjoy through the OC Public Libraries’ website and social media networks.
“These programs will enable families to understand and learn how to engage in and benefit from distance learning,” said Supervisor Doug Chaffee, Fourth District.
Additionally, the Orange County community is invited to visit the library during each event to learn more about curbside pickup, virtual resources and other library resources that support families with distance learning.
“These events are a great opportunity for families to stay engaged with their local libraries and celebrate the importance of education,” said Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, Fifth District.
The Back-to-School events will begin the same week OC Public Libraries reopen for Grab & Go service and public computer use.
For more information about OC Public Libraries and service updates, visit ocpl.org
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (September 17, 2020) -- OC Public Libraries is excited to announce the next stage in reopening and providing modified service in accordance with the State of California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy, with Orange County now in the red tier, libraries can reopen with modifications and capacity limited to 50%.
“The County of Orange is pleased to take this next step and expand core library services vital to the community,” said Chairwoman Michelle Steel, Second District Supervisor.
Beginning September 22, OC Public Libraries will offer Grab & Go services, allowing patrons to use self-service checkout of requested and limited popular items. Library buildings will be open with metered access for Grab & Go self-service checkout of patron requests and limited popular items, along with physically distanced single patron internet stations available by reservation for one-hour sessions. Contactless curbside pickup service will continue.
“OC Public Libraries’ new Grab & Go service is a great way for residents, especially those in underserved communities, to safely return to county libraries and access essential services that they may not otherwise have at home, such as Wi-Fi,” said Vice Chairman Andrew Do, First District Supervisor.
Hours for in-building services will be Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. New hours for curbside pickup service will be Tuesday-Thursday, 12 to 6 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Laguna Woods and Laguna Hills Technology Libraries will continue with curbside pickup service only from Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
“The expansion of OC Public Libraries hours allows for community members to access services at their own convenience, such as after school and work or even on weekends,” said Supervisor Donald Wagner, Third District.
Additionally, virtual programs and assistance will continue to be available via email, online chat, and in-person. Designated public areas will be clearly marked for patrons to safely browse, and the remaining library space has been modified in compliance with State guidelines. Patrons are advised to plan ahead as seating and restrooms will not be available at this time.
“OC Public Libraries’ virtual programs and events are a great way for the community to remain connected to the library programs they miss,” said Supervisor Doug Chaffee, Fourth District.
Exterior book drops remain open, and all returned library items are quarantined for 96 hours, non-stacked where possible.
“Ensuring our residents feel comfortable using our services is of high importance to the County,” said Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, Fifth District. “Our libraries will continue to offer contactless options to keep those utilizing our services confident of the County’s dedication to the health and safety of all residents.”
OC Public Libraries will evaluate the addition of possible services when modifications are determined by the State of California and Orange County guidance.
For more information about OC Public Libraries and service updates, visit ocpl.org
Wednesday, September 30, 4-6 PM: Design & Code Apps
Learn to design and code apps, ages 13+
In this free two-hour virtual workshop, students thirteen and older will learn about appsand how to create them. They will brainstorm their own app idea and learn to code an app with Code.org’s App Lab.
NOTE: For this workshop, you’ll need a free account with Code.org. Set up your account HERE.
For the best experience, please use Edge or Chrome Internet browsers to join the workshop. For any questions, please email Beatriz Preciado at Beatriz.preciado@occr.ocgov.com
Rylee is a power house when it comes to customer service. She is always coming up with ways to serve the public at our branch, from starting a workout club, offering one-on-one computer help, leading storytimes, and creating crafts for kids. She is always a friendly face when people enter our branch and she is quick to strike up a conversation or funny anecdote with any patron who comes in.
Rylee volunteers for all projects we have at the branch, even if they are not something that she is familiar with, she is always willing to learn. While telecommuting, she has been making videos for the craft committee, and recording yoga videos for the #fitnessfriday series on OCPL social media. She is always trying to provide excellent content to our online presence throughout the closure.
Rylee is great when it comes to thinking of new programs or crafts at our branch. She has started several past and present programs, Body Sculpt, Yoga Storytime, Workout Club, and Hike2Breakfast.
Rylee is just a really great person. During this closure she is telecommuting, parenting her 2 girls, homeschooling and finishing her last semester of library school before she earns her MLIS.
OC Public Libraries launched the Community Cookbook Project to connect with our community. We are constantly seeking new ways to interact with the community; to share memories, stories, and recipes with one another.
