Overview

In 2025, the ELEVATE initiative proudly launched its first pilot project in partnership with the Lawrence Public Library, a cornerstone of the Merrimack Valley Library Consortium (MVLC).
This pilot marks a transformative step in turning public libraries into vibrant hubs of digital access, learning, and empowerment.

Our mission: To Turn libraries into launchpads for digital access, learning, and community empowerment

ELEVATE builds on the success of the award-winning Digital JEDI project, where Cambridge city departments, nonprofits, and public libraries partnered to serve residents most impacted by the digital divide.

In Cambridge, over 50% of digital equity service requests came through the public library, proving libraries are not just access points—but digital lifelines.

1. Progress So Far

ELEVATE’s early work with Lawrence Public Library has achieved several important milestones:

a. Community Listening & Needs Assessment

Through listening sessions and a full technology audit, ELEVATE worked with:

  • Library staff
  • Community members
  • Local partners

To:

  • Identify gaps in devices, internet access, and digital skills
  • Understand patron needs around career development and connectivity
  • Co-design a library-centered digital equity strategy

b. Helping Secure Additional Funding

ELEVATE helped Lawrence Public Library develop proposals and justify investment for expanded digital services—enabling the next phases of the pilot.

2. What’s Next?

a. Hardware & Software Acquisition

Purchasing laptops, mobile hotspots, and updated workstations for the lending library and public access terminals.

b. Platform Integration

Integrating ELEVATE’s Digital Services Hub directly into SirsiDynix Symphony—MVLC’s shared Library Management System—allowing seamless tracking of:

  • Device lending
  • Tech support tickets
  • Digital literacy enrollments
  • Community referrals

c. Testing & Optimization

Ensuring systems work smoothly for both patrons and staff across all digital touchpoints.

d. Staff Training & Launch

Preparing library staff and volunteers to use ELEVATE tools, devices, and workflows in anticipation of a full public launch later this year.

3. Why Lawrence?

Lawrence was selected as ELEVATE’s first site because of:

  • High need for expanded digital access
  • A diverse, multilingual population
  • A visionary leadership team committed to inclusive innovation
  • Its strategic position within MVLC, enabling easy regional scale

4. A Blueprint for Statewide Impact

The Lawrence pilot is more than a project—it’s a proof of concept for scaling library-based digital equity across Massachusetts.

With built-in compatibility with SirsiDynix Symphony, the same system used by:

  • MVLC (Merrimack Valley)
  • SAILS (Southeastern MA)
  • OCLN (South Shore)

…and easy integration with Evergreen and Koha, used by other consortia like CW MARS, CLAMS, and NOBLE, ELEVATE is designed for interoperability and statewide scalability.

5. Vision Beyond Massachusetts

Our sights are set beyond the Commonwealth.
With support for the most widely used Library Management Systems—including SirsiDynix Symphony, which powers 20% of U.S. public libraries—ELEVATE is positioned to become a national model.

From Cambridge to Lawrence, from Merrimack Valley to the nation—ELEVATE is helping libraries lead the way to a more connected, inclusive future.