From November 1 2018 Kaikōura District Library will have another way to help families who need a hand getting online.

Library staff will be helping eligible families get low cost broadband at home with no landline, contract or credit checks.

The service is part of the Spark Jump initiative and aims to help children continue learning out of school hours. It provides a low cost, prepaid internet service for families with children under 18 who currently have no broadband connection.

“It’s really easy to get set up,” says Jackie Brown, Kaikōura District Library Manager. “All people have to do is pop into the library and we can help them see if they can get broadband at their house. If they can, the modem is provided free through the programme and you top up as you go.”

“There’s no fixed term contract, no credit check, no fibre or landline connection needed and no installation cost or complications – it is a really great programme to help people get online who might not be able to otherwise,” says Brown.

Spark Jump is subsidised by the Spark Foundation and offered through local partners in Spark Jump coverage areas. The library was approached through their Stepping Up programme, where library staff run free group workshops for computer use.

People in Kaikōura who would like to know more can call the library on 03 319 6280 or visit the library in person at Level 1, 96 West End. The library is open Mon – Fri: 9.30am – 5:30pm, Saturday: 10am-1.00pm, closed Sunday’s and public holidays.

The library also offers free Wi-Fi, computer access, local history and more. You can now become a member of the library online through Councils website, as well as access the library catalogue from the comfort of your own home.

Community groups and initiatives such as Toddler Time, Stepping Up, yoga, Embroidery Group, Toy Library, Family History/Ancestry, and Puzzle Swap take place in the library. Get in touch with the team at the library if you would like to know more about any of their services.

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