Media
Contact:
Heather
O’Connell
239-461-2924
FORT
MYERS, FL; May 19, 2008 – Tips for Applying for Assistance at the Library
Libraries are seeing an increase in people who are coming in to apply for
Medicaid, unemployment and food stamps online. Unfortunately, the process isn’t
always easy, and may take several sessions. That’s why the Lee County Library
System is helping people get prepared with helpful tips and information.
”Sometimes the applications are long and complicated. They can be especially
difficult for people who don’t have computer skills, like using drop down boxes
and creating a password,” said Heather O’Connell, Lee County Library System
Community Relations Coordinator.
“Almost all the applications require an e-mail address, which many
of these applicants haven’t had before, so we get them started with setting up
free e-mail accounts”, said
Cifelli created step by step guides for creating e-mail accounts and completing
each social service application. These show each screen, noting everything from
how to use the cursor and open drop down boxes, to which information needs to
be written down to follow up on the application or complete it later.
”With heavy demand, there are time limits for computer use, so the applications
can’t always be finished in a single session,” Cifelli said.
The guides are available in English and Spanish. There’s also a guide in
Spanish that provides citizenship information for immigrants.
More tips for completing public assistance applications online at the
library:
Check the libraries nearest you
for their hours. Computers shut down 15 minutes before closing at each
location.
Some locations frequently have wait times for computers, but
reservations can be made at the library up to 7 days in advance.
If you have limited computer experience and need assistance, call
the library to see if a volunteer computer coach is available.
Check that you bring all required information for your
application, including identification.
If you do not have an e-mail account, the library can show you how to create a
free one.
You will need to write down information from your application, and it may take
more than one session to complete.
You may want to print out some information. There is no charge for computer use
at the library, but there is a fee for printing: 10 cents per black and white
page.
A library card is required for computer use. If you do not have a
Lee County Library System library card, you will need identification to get
one. Library cards are free to anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in
For more information and library locations, please call 479-INFO or visit www.lee-county.com/library
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