Getting On Line Without a Computer or Internet Access at Home

Introduction

In today’s world, there are many resources that are available to parents on the internet. Parents can find out about child development, help for children with special needs, positive parenting, health coverage, and many other important issues about your children. Parents can also get information about jobs and job training, immigration, and government benefits.

But what can parents do if you don’t have a computer or internet access at home? There’s an easy and free answer – your local public library!

Internet Access at Public Libraries

Ninety-five percent of public libraries offer free access to computers and the internet. Public library patrons use library computers to learn basic computer and Internet skills. There is no reason to worry or be embarrassed about things like cost or lack of knowledge about how to use the Internet. Use of library computers and internet services is FREE! Librarians can provide one-on-one training. This informal, personal assistance can help you learn basic computer and Internet skills while you are looking for information. Some libraries even provide formal Internet training classes or workshops on basic computer skills, word processing, or using different databases.

If you read and speak only Spanish, you may be wondering whether or not it’s worth your while to try to get onto the internet. With the new Traducelo Ahora (Translation Now) program now available through a grant from IBM to the Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN), the answer is yes! This free program gives you the ability to translate emails and websites from English to Spanish and Spanish to English using any computer that has access to the internet. An email that you send in Spanish can be translated into English. When that person responds back to you in English, it will be translated into Spanish. This program will help you become an effective advocate; find information on jobs, health, human services and other resources quickly and easily; and communicate with your child(ren)’s doctors, teachers, and other service providers.

Benefits of Using Traducelo Ahora

SPAN piloted use of Traducelo Ahora with over 50 Spanish-speaking families around New Jersey for several months. Here’s what they say about the program:

"It’s fabulous! So quick and easy to use. It's a great tool!"

"It has opened up my world! I am now able to communicate beyond my language limitations!"

"I cannot believe how many resources are available! I have so much I need to learn. I can simply translate and print the material that will help equip me to become a better advocate for my child."

"WOW! I am connected! I have an email address now and enjoy to surf around on the Internet! I am getting so many great resources on upcoming state events from SPAN."

"It was so difficult before to connect with my child's doctor over the phone but now I can send an email and now he responds promptly. I can now send in my questions and concerns before scheduled visits so that I make sure to get the answers that I need about my child's health and medication. I really feel more empowered now that I am able to get my concerns addressed."

"Agencies can hear our voices now! We contacted a few agencies to request trainings for Spanish speaking families and now they are listening."

"I never knew how much information I was missing out on, now I can be more informed and connected with my child's disability and what's available as far as intervention. I can now be more aware of upcoming activities & support groups available in my child's school, community and state."

"Thank you for helping us to communicate more effectively."

It’s clear that using Traducelo Ahora to find out about resources can be very helpful to your and your family. If you don’t have a computer or internet access at home, computer and Internet access at your local public library can help you keep in touch with family and friends, complete homework assignments, find job listings, and write to your elected officials, in addition to helping you help your child(ren). So how do you get started?

Getting Started

The first thing to do is to go to your local public library. You can find your closest public library by looking in your phone book. Or you can call the New Jersey State Library at (609) 278-2640 to find out the telephone number and address of your closest public library. (Other possible sources are community colleges and community-based groups).

Call the library to find out their hours of operation. Ask if there are special hours for use of the computers and the internet. Ask if there is any training available on how to use the library computers and internet. Then make your arrangements to go to the library!

Guidelines for Using Public Library Computers and Internet

Most New Jersey Public Libraries have guidelines, or rules, for using their computers and internet. Some of the guidelines might include:

Computer users must have a library card. Usually anyone who lives in the geographic area served by that library may register for a library card. You need to show your identification, such as a drivers’ license or other identification with your address on it. If you don’t have identification with your address on it, you can provide your other identification plus a bill (rent, utility) or ...

Getting On Line Without a Computer or Internet Access at Home

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