ReConnect CT: Digital Pathways Program

ReConnect CT: Digital Pathways Program is an initiative from the Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy (IMRP) at the University of Connecticut, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, that invites Connecticut libraries to participate in expanding digital opportunities for justice-impacted populations.

The program partners with the Criminal Justice Policy and Planning Division at the Office of Policy and Management to advance digital literacy and technology access for individuals affected by the justice system. Eligible participants are Connecticut public libraries interested in supporting reentry and digital equity efforts for formerly incarcerated individuals and their communities.

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On Mobile (iOS/Android) University of Connecticut The Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy (IMRP) in partnership with the Criminal Justice Policy and Planning Division (CJPPD) at OPM is proud to launch ReConnect CT: Digital Pathways Program. This effort, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), is dedicated to advancing digital opportunities for justice-impacted populations.

We are currently inviting Connecticut libraries to partner in this initiative by responding to our Request for Proposals (RFP). Libraries play a critical role in bridging the digital gap, and your participation can help deliver training that normalizes and expands services for incarcerated patrons, both within correctional facilities and in community-based reentry programs.

Scroll down for submission timeline and frequently asked questions. ReConnect CT: Digital Pathways Program aims to ensure that returning citizens have equitable access to information, digital skills, training, and community resources that promote educational, economic, and civic engagement.

The target population includes individuals under or previously under the custody of the CT Department of Correction and justice-impacted people seeking access to library resources. Libraries can also serve immediate family members of currently incarcerated individuals. Funding will support programming through December 31, 2026 .

The estimated total amount available under this RFP is up to $1,000,000 , with award sizes based on project scope and number of sites. Libraries may propose activities including, but not limited to: Service Development & Expansion • Extend library services (e.g., library cards, access to collections, dedicated hours) to incarcerated individuals at the Connecticut Department of Correction (CTDOC) facilities.

• Develop or contribute to reentry toolkits that support patrons as they transition back into the community after incarceration. • Build collaborations with community partners that support reentry, including halfway houses, higher education institutions, job readiness programs, educational resources, and access to benefits and healthcare.

• Expand programming through partnerships with digital learning platforms (e.g., LinkedIn Learning) to provide relevant training in workforce, financial literacy, and technology skills. Digital Navigation & Access • Serve as a host site or co-facilitator for the Digital Pathways curriculum. • Provide access to public internet, devices (e.g., laptops, tablets, laptop kiosks), and dedicated space for digital learning.

• Offer or expand access to digital resources such as databases, eBooks, and learning platforms. • Promote digital literacy programs and support services for returning citizens. Proposals should reflect, where possible, alignment with the American Library Association’s Standards for Library Services to the Incarcerated and Detained.

While completeness is important, we understand each library is different and aim to keep this process flexible and approachable. If needed, IMRP may request clarification or additional details after submission. A full list of proposal requirements are included at the bottom of this page.

Timeline for the RFP process: Proposals Due: December 12, 2025 Application Review: Will begin December 15, 2025, for applications submitted between November 21 and December 12. Proposals submitted within this window will be given priority; those submitted after will be considered based on available funds. Click HERE to access guidance on the Request for Proposals.

Frequently Asked Questions Q: Are academic libraries in Connecticut eligible to apply? A: Yes. Academic libraries are eligible to apply, but proposals must align with the RFP’s goals and demonstrate how they will serve the intended population.

Q: Are resources or guidelines available to help applicants understand the constraints and environments within correctional facilities? A: Currently, there is no single primer or guide outlining all facility-specific constraints.

However, applicants are encouraged to explore existing resources such as the Connecticut State Digital Equity Opportunity Plan , which includes relevant qualitative and quantitative data from residents formerly in state facilities. Applicants may also consider connecting with higher education programs or organizations that have experience delivering digital education or reentry services in correctional settings.

Q: Can a nonprofit organization partner with a public library to apply for this grant? A: Yes. Nonprofit organizations may partner with public libraries to submit a joint proposal.

Proposals will be evaluated based on their alignment with the RFP goals. Collaborative proposals strengthen community impact are welcomed. For additional questions, please contact imrp@uconn.

edu and include “R eConnect CT: Digital Pathways program RFP ” in the subject line. The ReConnect CT team thanks you in advance for your interest in this project and your commitment to digital inclusion and community access!