For many Canadians, access to technology isn’t just about the internet connection — it’s about the devices needed to use it. Public device lending programs, often run through libraries, schools, or nonprofits, can bridge this gap by offering laptops, tablets, or hotspots to those who otherwise couldn’t afford them.
Why They Matter
Equity in education: Students without devices at home can complete homework and participate in online classes.
Workforce access: Job seekers can build resumes, apply online, and practice digital skills.
Healthcare and services: Devices open the door to telehealth, online benefits, and government portals.
Community resilience: Lending programs reduce isolation and expand access to digital literacy resources.
Canadian Context
Library leadership: Cities like Toronto and Calgary have piloted Chromebook and hotspot lending programs.
School boards: Many lent laptops during the pandemic, though inconsistently.
Nonprofits: Programs like Computers for Schools Plus refurbish donated devices and distribute them to communities in need.
Funding patchwork: Most programs rely on grants or donations rather than sustained public investment.
The Challenges
Sustainability: Devices wear out quickly under heavy use. Who funds replacements?
Training gap: Lending a device isn’t enough if users don’t know how to navigate it.
Privacy concerns: Shared devices can pose risks if data isn’t properly wiped between users.
Stigma: Some people feel embarrassed to borrow, reinforcing exclusion.
Coverage: Programs are limited in scale; demand far outweighs supply.
The Opportunities
National expansion: A coordinated device lending strategy could ensure no Canadian is left offline.
Partnerships: Schools, libraries, and telecoms could pool resources to scale programs.
Built-in training: Pair lending with workshops or digital mentorship.
Green benefits: Refurbished devices reduce e-waste and extend tech lifespans.
Policy support: Treat device lending as part of Canada’s digital infrastructure, not charity.
The Bigger Picture
A hotspot or laptop may seem small, but for many it’s the difference between participating in society or being shut out. Public device lending programs are proof that digital access is not just about cables and towers — it’s about ensuring everyone has the tools to connect.
The Question
Should Canada move toward a universal device access guarantee — ensuring that every household has at least one functional device, whether owned or borrowed?
Public Device Lending Programs
More Than Just Books at the Library
For many Canadians, access to technology isn’t just about the internet connection — it’s about the devices needed to use it. Public device lending programs, often run through libraries, schools, or nonprofits, can bridge this gap by offering laptops, tablets, or hotspots to those who otherwise couldn’t afford them.
Why They Matter
Canadian Context
The Challenges
The Opportunities
The Bigger Picture
A hotspot or laptop may seem small, but for many it’s the difference between participating in society or being shut out. Public device lending programs are proof that digital access is not just about cables and towers — it’s about ensuring everyone has the tools to connect.
The Question
Should Canada move toward a universal device access guarantee — ensuring that every household has at least one functional device, whether owned or borrowed?