Bridging the Digital Divide in Lowell, Massachusetts
by Connecting Human Networks

A Need for Community Technology in Lowell

Lowell Telecommunications Corporation (LTC) began in 1995 as a community technology center and site location for Lowell's local cable access television channels (community and municipal). By 1999, LTC was flourishing, hosting a number of computer classes in addition to the cable access channels and the local community access radio station. Class topics ranged from basic computer skills (Internet, Microsoft Office, etc.) to advanced video editing techniques. LTC wanted to continue offering its current services, but the job was simply becoming too large for LTC's staff and facilities.

The Formation of the Lowell Community Technology Consortium

The Lowell community needed technology training and access, but LTC was not equipped to bridge the digital divide alone. Creating other community technology centers in the area to decentralize LTC's class load would allow for more concentration on media projects, LTC's main focus, while giving the community the resources it needed.

In 1999 LTC applied for and received a three-year, $800,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Education to start the Lowell Community Technology Consortium (LCTC, or "the Consortium"). The funds were used to install technology labs in various community centers throughout the city and implement class schedules on relevant topics.

LCTC Today

The Lowell Community Technology Consortium is a collaboration of organizations and individuals using technology to serve the citizens of Lowell, Massachusetts. Over twenty non-profit organizations participate in the Consortium through the development of technology labs and training programs to educate and enrich the lives of Lowell residents. The community technology venters of the Consortium serve a variety of populations in Lowell including youth, seniors, homeless individuals, several language groups, and individuals with mental disabilities.