Hyperlinked Environments & Issues: Connecting Communities Solar Benches Illuminate the Path to Digital Inclusion

“Empowering Lives, One Bench at a Time”

The vibrant town of Norman, Oklahoma, known for its sunny days and welcoming atmosphere, has become the setting for a remarkable initiative that’s transforming the way communities access information. Imagine strolling through your neighborhood, basking in the sunlight, and suddenly stumbling upon a bench that not only invites you to take a break but also offers a portal to a world of digital possibilities.

In recent times, libraries across the United States, including the Pioneer Library System (PLS) in Norman, have been rolling out an ingenious solution to bridge the digital gap: solar-powered benches. As I delved into the stories behind these benches, two articles caught my attention, each shedding light on the impact these tech-infused havens are having on communities.

The Pioneer Library System’s Digital Oasis:
I was fascinated to learn about PLS’s Information Stations, a series of solar benches that serve as more than just seating areas. These benches, powered by EnGoPlanet Energy Solutions, are strategically placed throughout the community, providing not only a comfortable spot to rest but also free Wi-Fi and charging stations. It’s like having a digital oasis amid the outdoor landscape.

Kelly Sitzman, the director of communications and employment development at PLS, emphasizes the importance of these benches in addressing the digital divide. In a world where technology is often a gateway to education, employment, and social connection, PLS is pioneering a movement to ensure that everyone, regardless of location or economic status, has access to the digital realm.

Michigan and Louisiana: Extending Connectivity Beyond Library Walls:
Moving north to Newaygo, Michigan, and down south to Beauregard Parish, Louisiana, we encounter similar stories of libraries leveraging solar benches to extend their reach beyond physical buildings. Kelly Tinkham, the director of Newaygo Area District Library, shares how the demand for digital access soared during the pandemic, prompting the installation of these benches even as library doors remained closed.

In Louisiana, the Beauregard Parish Library creatively utilized American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to retrofit solar benches with Wi-Fi hotspots, further enhancing their functionality. Erin Chesnutt, the library director, sees these benches as not just technological innovations but as resilient resources that can aid communities during unexpected closures, such as those caused by natural disasters.

Personal Reflection: A Bench for Every Community:
As I reflect on these initiatives, I can’t help but appreciate the personal touch these solar benches bring to each community. They are more than just pieces of technology; they are symbols of empowerment, inclusion, and resilience.

The concept of creating hyperlinked environments, as discussed in the Pew Research Center survey findings, comes to life through these benches. They act as nodes, connecting individuals, irrespective of age, education, or income, to the vast network of digital resources. In a world where technology can sometimes be a source of division, these solar benches are breaking down barriers and creating a shared space for growth and connection.

In conclusion, as these solar-powered benches become beacons of connectivity in our communities, it’s heartening to witness libraries taking bold steps to redefine their roles. They are not just repositories of books; they are dynamic hubs fostering digital inclusivity. Next time you’re strolling through your local park or library, keep an eye out for that solar bench – it might just be your portal to a brighter, more connected future.

References:

Silver, L. (2019, February 5). Smartphone Ownership Is Growing Rapidly Around the World, but Not Always Equally. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2019/02/05/smartphone-ownership-is-growing-rapidly-around-the-world-but-not-always-equally/

Furbee, B. (2023, May 1). Sit and Surf: High-tech Benches Bridge Digital Divide. American Libraries Magazine. https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2023/05/01/sit-and-surf/