FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Emma Stokely
Public + Media Relations Manager
531-MCC-2726
estokely@mccneb.edu
Digital Express Opens on MCC Fort Omaha Campus
Digital library offers tech access and community space in North Omaha
OMAHA, Nebraska (January 10, 2023) — Metropolitan Community College announced the opening of Digital Express, located inside Building 10 on the Fort Omaha Campus in North Omaha. In addition to MCC students, the state-of-the-art facility is open to the public and offers free access to technology, meeting spaces, digital library and learning opportunities.
Beverly Lahlum Taylor, director of the 13,000-square-foot Digital Express, said the accessible space welcomes everyone — older adults, K-12 students, college students and families. Patrons will be able to check out devices like laptops and iPads, receive technology support services and benefit from a host of learning resources. A technology-rich commons area and Creative Zone will offer academic assistance and hands-on technology experiences. Quiet, collaborative meeting rooms are also available for presentations, group study or for parents to help their children with homework on technology that may not be available at home.
“Digital Express is a place where multiple generations can feel comfortable connecting, learning and creating,” Lahlum Taylor said. “We are here to serve anyone who not only needs access to technology but also wants support and resources to use it to enhance existing skills and learn new ones.”
A key feature of Digital Express is “Reboot Central powered by IFix Omaha” The technology service desk offers low-cost technology repair provided by industry experts and MCC students pursuing careers in information technology.
Lahlum Taylor said community feedback informed decisions about the space and services offered within — representatives from more than 35 community organizations provided input into the facility’s potential offerings.
“Since the start of this initiative, we have recognized that we are not the experts regarding the needs of the community. We have heard the community’s need for technology tools and learning, and we have created a space to offer those critical resources,” Lahlum Taylor said.
There is no membership fee required to use Digital Express. In addition to equipping the new space with community needs in mind, it is also staffed accordingly.
“We know the importance of creating an environment that promotes a sense of belonging,” Lahlum Taylor said. “Our goal is for everyone who comes through our doors to experience the community asset Digital Express is intended to be. It is a space that is designed for people to just go and be in. Not many spaces like this exist anymore.”
Digital Express hours will be 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. For more information, visit mccneb.edu/DigitalExpress or call 531-MCC-2000.
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Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.