Overcoming Technology Barriers for Students

Abstract

This paper describes efforts at the University of Arizona Libraries (UAL) in Tucson to improve access to the Internet and technology during the COVID-19 pandemic and as the libraries continue to adapt to hybrid instructional modalities. The authors highlight how their institution leveraged campus data and new partnerships to better meet students’ basic technology needs, particularly for first-generation and underrepresented students. While much of this content was previously presented at the 2022 Library Assessment Conference,1 there have been several updates, and more operational information is shared in this article. UAL analyzed anonymized student demographic data, including race and ethnicity, first-generation student status, and Pell grant recipients, to determine how service utilization aligned with the campus population. The libraries established new campus partnerships and are evaluating and refining their approach. This foundational work provided new ideas for ways to reach more students in need and to form additional partnerships with groups on campus.