Pilot program gives 10 iPads to Astoria, Woodhaven libraries

Local students demonstrated their iPad skills for Council Member Costa Constantinides at Astoria Library on Thursday, 3 months into the pilot program for which he secured funding that provides free access to iPads at the branch.

“We’re seeing a digital divide that we have to close,” he said, citing statistics that show only 41% of residents in nearby Astoria houses have broadband internet. “We have to make sure our students have the tools to compete.”

The pilot program provides access to 10 iPads in the branch, which library-goers are able to access free of charge, although they cannot check them out. The program extends to the Woodhaven branch of the Queens Library Program as well, which also received 10 iPads.