The Farmington Community Library (FCL) is launching the FiberCity® Digital Literacy Project this fall, thanks to a generous $10,000 donation from Farmington Area FiberCity® powered by SiFi Networks. This funding will support circulating laptops and a subscription to Fiero Code, a learning platform for users ages 8-18 that teaches them how to code.

The Farmington Area FiberCity® is a citywide fiber optic network that is being built throughout Farmington and Farmington Hills. The network will bring fast, affordable, and reliable all-fiber internet access to every home, business, and institution across our two cities.

The generous donation will allow the Library to add six Dell laptops to its growing and popular collection of circulating electronic devices. Adults 18 years or older with a registered FCL card in good standing and a valid state-issued ID can check out the devices. Laptops are available for 7-day checkouts with no renewals.

Fiero Code is an innovative e-learning platform designed to teach coding skills to users aged 8-18. The platform supports both beginning learners and those who are looking to develop more advanced coding skills. Fiero Code offers a comprehensive curriculum that spans HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, SQL, and block-based coding with Scratch. The platform is gamified, self-paced, and accessible 24/7 on the Library’s website at farmlib.org/learn-technology-skills. Users will need to create a username and password to log into the program.

The FiberCity® Digital Literacy Project also includes coding events for kids that provides community-based learning through the Fiero Code platform. “This is a fantastic opportunity for younger patrons to be introduced to the world of coding, cooperate with others to solve problems, and to develop skills to work independently through a number of fun and educational projects,” said Charlie Cusack, Children’s Librarian. The Library is offering several programs this fall geared toward elementary age children including a monthly coding club for students in grades 3-5. Full event details and registration information is available on the Library’s online event calendar at farmlib.org/events.