Test your internet speed to help Georgia schools
Now through August 31, Georgians are asked to participate in a free and simple internet speed test. The Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative (GBDI) has launched the Speedtest® by Ookla® pilot project statewide, which is designed to equip school leaders with the clearest picture possible of internet connectivity for Georgia’s students and teachers for the upcoming school year.
Georgians are encouraged to download the free Ookla Speedtest app (Android or iOS-Apple) to the various devices that they use to connect to the internet (smartphones, tablets, etc.) and take several tests in the places where connectivity is important to them. For laptops and desktop computers, visit https://www.speedtest.net
The easy-to-use Speedtest, along with the information available at the Broadband Initiative website, will assist school leaders as they plan for their digital learning strategies. Learn more here: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2020-06-23/state-launches-internet-speedtest-pilot-schools
One-on-One Virtual Sessions: Heritage Room and Computer Tutorials
Heritage Room virtual one-on-one sessions: Are you working on a research project or genealogy question? Need access to materials and support? Email heritageroomref@athenslibrary.org or call us at 706-613-3650, ext. 350, to request a 45-minute one-on-one virtual research session. The Heritage Room staff will be available electronically or via telephone, to assist with genealogy research. These 45-minute one-on-one sessions are by appointment and are designed for those working on research projects, those with genealogy questions, and those who need access to materials. (Starting the week of 6/22)
Virtual One-on-One Computer Tutorials and Online Computer Classes: Need a little extra help with a computer skill? We now offer virtual one-on-one computer tutorials! These free, 45-minute interactive sessions cover basic computer skills like creating a Word doc, accessing the Internet and navigating Facebook. We also offer virtual computer classes on a range of topics from keyboard skills to Google Docs to Internet privacy and security. Patrons can register for computer classes or tutorials on our library’s virtual events calendar and can join in using Google Meet.
Resources That Promote Equity
The Athens Regional Library System embraces diversity, inclusion, and social justice. These are a part of our organizational values and at the heart of our public services. We support the members of our communities who are in pain, those who are on a quest to educate themselves around the issues of race, and those wondering how to talk with children and young people about these issues. To help with those endeavors, we have developed the following list of resources. We will be adding to this list as the days go by. Much like the challenging events our communities have experienced over the last three months, the Library believes that we are in this together, and together we will see our way through. Visit our resources here.
Share your family's experiences as part of our library's community archive
Are you keeping a journal of your experiences during the coronavirus pandemic?
Did you post a photo on social media of empty shelves at the grocery store? Whether you’re writing in an old school diary or recording voice memos, everyone's experience is unique. The Heritage Room at Athens-Clarke County Library wants to help preserve our community’s story of this unprecedented time in our collective history. We are interested in stories from everyday people. No story is too small! How you collect your thoughts is up to you: write in a journal, take photos or videos, record voice memos or even save social media posts. Full details are available here using a Google account. If you don't have a Google account, use this link.
Dear Library User,
As part of its phased reentry plan, the Athens Regional Library System continues to expand its available services while protecting the health and safety of patrons and staff.
There’s still time to complete your 2020 U.S. Census! The Census directly impacts resources allocated for healthcare, education and infrastructure. It’s important to ensure everyone in our communities is counted. Completing the census is safe, secure and easy. It only takes about 10 minutes at 
Our libraries are adapting to meet your reading needs.We are expanding our digital eBook, e-Magazines, and e-audiobook collection by 80%, including many new eleases and in-demand titles. We invite you to visit our online library to log in to RBDigital and browse our collection! Don't forget... we also have a digital collection for younger readers through eRead Kids! eRead Kids, offered by Athens Regional Library System and Georgia Public Library Services, has nearly 15,000 ebooks and audiobooks for children from pre-k through fourth grade. Download books straight to your computer or mobile device. Don't have a library card? We've got you covered! Keep calm and read on!
