Five libraries are offering the chance to borrow an iPad for up to six weeks free of charge.
The pilot scheme is being offered by Dorset Council libraries, who are working with Citizen’s Advice and the Department for Work and Pensions to help people search and apply for jobs online. They can also be used to access online training to gain skills and knowledge.
The devices are easy to use with an instructional video and support from library staff and digital champions. There is no need for broadband as the tablets have free data and are fully loaded with information about looking for work and learning new skills.
The iPads will be available to borrow from these libraries
- Blandford
- Bridport
- Ferndown
- Swanage
- Weymouth
Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Communities and Customer Services, said:
“This is a great opportunity for people who are struggling to find employment through traditional ways to try a different approach for free.
“Our digital champions are very good at helping the inexperienced to get online.”
Details of the scheme can be found at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/borrow-an-ipad
If the pilot is successful Dorset Council will investigate extending the number of libraries able to offer this service.
Picture of an iPad running a web browser displaying, on this occasion, the KeeP 106 website
