Computer literacy and internet access is essential to many parts of educational, civic and cultural life. In Multnomah County, 18% of households with income under $30,000 don’t have internet at home. In support of a public-private-nonprofit collaborative effort to increase digital inclusion in the community, Welcome to Computers helps adults who don’t have a working device and lack basic computing skills to gain the knowledge and support they need to successfully navigate computers and participate in the online world.

With help from local partners, the library enrolls adults who can benefit from the program. Participants receive five weeks of digital literacy training on computer basics, email and more. The program has significant participation among women of color, seniors, people with disabilities and immigrant and refugee communities. Eighty-nine percent of participants have a household income less than $30,000 and 43% have no high school diploma. The program offers classes in English, Somali, Russian, Spanish and Karen.

Since beginning the program in 2016, Multnomah County Library has collectively helped more than 300 adults gain basic computer skills and earn free computers. In 2018, Welcome to Computers gave away 115 free computers. After completing the courses and receiving their computer, participants also receive one year of technical support from Free Geek. Participants also learn about using the library, accessing more online training resources and language support, and can sign up for a library card.