May 13, 2026

Norwell, MA — Library Director Rachel Breen announced this week that Norwell Public Library has received over $35,000 worth of technology from the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI), a division of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech), through the Connected and Online Program, a statewide initiative aimed at expanding digital access.

The library applied for the grant to help save money for the Town of Norwell by offsetting the cost of needed technology upgrades. The award provided the library with 30 physical devices as well as software, valued at over $35,000, at no cost to the library or the Town. Equipment includes desktop computers, laptops, tablets, monitors, keyboards, mice, and specialized software such as JAWS assistive technology and TD SNAP software. These new resources will enhance the library’s ability to provide equitable access to technology, support digital literacy, and serve patrons with diverse needs, including those requiring assistive tools.

The Connected and Online Program, funded through the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund, is a $28.5 million initiative distributing nearly 27,000 internet-enabled devices and more than 20,000 pieces of supporting equipment to over 200 organizations statewide, including libraries, nonprofits, hospitals, and community groups. State officials said the program is designed to help residents access essential online services such as education, employment resources, and health care, while strengthening community connections across Massachusetts. NPL is grateful to be able to support the initiatives of this program. 

At Norwell Public Library, the new devices will be available for public use within the library and will also support future device lending programs for in-house use and for checkout from the library. NPL will conduct outreach to inform residents about how they can access these new resources.

For more information about available technology and services, please contact the Norwell Public Library at 781-659-2015 or visit norwellpubliclibrary.org.

About the Massachusetts Broadband Institute at MassTech
A division of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) is working to extend high-speed internet access and availability across the state. To achieve this, MBI uses state and federal funding to launch infrastructure expansion programs that target areas of the state that lack high-speed internet access as well as digital equity programs that tackle barriers to internet adoption and increase availability, addressing critical issues around affordability, enhanced public Wi-Fi, the need for internet-enabled devices, and digital literacy training.

Learn more at broadband.masstech.org .