REGION — Libraries in the Oxford Hills communities of Paris, West Paris, Bethel and Norway are offering free technical help to Oxford county residents, provided by Community Concepts. The same service is available at Fryeburg, Dixfield and Rumford public libraries.

Organized through the Digital Navigation Program, some residents may also qualify to receive free, recycled tablets.

Digital Navigator Ashley Lawrence will help people set up and learn to operate mobile phones, laptops and tablets. She will also provide instruction on using email, social media and operating person, medical and financial accounts online; spot fraud schemes; navigate the internet and use video and teleconferencing platforms.

“Anyone who may not have recent access or familiarity with current device technology will seek this program out,” explains David Singer, communications manager for Community Concepts. “Whether that’s someone who is a senior citizen, has been in a recovery center, or recently released from incarceration – those who will benefit from guidance on the best and safest ways to use a device.”

Lawrence’s tutoring sessions focus on password and privacy management, protecting personal information and avoiding phishing scams. The goal is to help people new to the digital world create effective passwords, safely shop online, understand how to identify secure, encrypted websites, protect financial accounts and safely operate on public networks or devices.”

“I let folks know how to spot red flags online,” said Lawrence. “And through case scenarios of identity theft or (financial) scams, I show them how to be mindful of their online presence and what to do online to keep them safe.”

Lawrence will be available during the following days and times at these locations:

Paris Public Library: Wednesdays 9-11 a.m.
West Paris Public Library: every other Wednesday 2-4 p.m.
Norway Memorial Library: Fridays 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Bethel Library: Thursdays 2:45-4:45 p.m.
Rumford Public Library: Thursdays 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Dixfield’s Ludden Memorial Library: Thursdays 12-2 p.m.
Fryeburg Public Library: Tuesdays 1-3 p.m.

People interested in Lawrence’s services should call her at 207-240-7843, or email her at alawrence@community-concepts.org to confirm location and schedule meeting times.

Community Concepts also provides free tablets to Oxford county residents who do not have the means or ability to secure one. Through its partnership with electronics recycler Give IT Get IT in Waterville and Maine School Administrative District 44 Bethel, recycled Samsung tablets are available to help people utilize telehealth services and electronic medical records, and communicate with family and friends.

Recipients must qualify to receive a device; for more information please call or email Lawrence using the contact information above. Tablets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

To date, Community Concepts has given away 200 devices. The organization also accepts donations of old laptops and tablets from people who wish to recycle them. To recycle a device through the Direct Navigation program, contact Community Concepts’ Resource Development Manager Kelsey Miller at 207-330-5578 or kmiller@community-concepts.org.

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