Go to the library for help filing your census (and other tech needs)

As you may know, Statistics Canada is conducting data for the 2026 census. If you have already received an envelope in the mail and are wondering what to do with the “access code” and website address within, know that the library can help.

You are welcome to use the public access computers at any branch of the County of Prince Edward Public Library – just drop in. If you would like technical assistance navigating the site, make your free appointment by calling (613) 476-5962. The library’s tech help can meet you at any branch of the library and work with you on accessing the site.

André Loranger, Chief Statistician of Canada, expressed the importance of the census: “For over a century, Canadians have relied on the census to understand how our country is changing over time. Once again, we call on all residents to complete their census questionnaire. With your help, results from the 2026 Census of Population will allow us to accurately reflect Canadian society.

This data will provide invaluable insights to all levels of government, as well as Canadian businesses and non-government organizations. It will ensure that they have access to the up-to-date information they need to plan critical services and programs such as employment, education, child care, health care and so much more.”

Filling out your census is just one of the myriad ways the tech help team can assist you with online services. One-on-one appointments are available year-round at any branch of the library and they’re a great way to get answers to your specific questions. You can ask for general help (for example, asking “What are the online services available through the library and how can I use them?”) or bring in a specific problem such as “Why do important emails keep getting trapped in my spam filters?” and leave with the answers you need.

Some complex problems or new skills may take more than one session, and that is perfectly fine. We’re here to help and you are welcome to book as many sessions as needed. Often people will book recurring sessions and practice their new skills at home in between, which is a great way to reinforce what you are learning. You can bring in your own device (for example, laptop, cell phone, or tablet) or use one of the library’s.

If you do not have internet access at home, the library has a program we call “Borrow the Internet”. These are portable devices that make a WIFI connection almost anywhere. They use the same signals as a cell phone might, so they don’t work particularly well if you are travelling somewhere remote, but they work well across Prince Edward County.

Just like a popular library book, you may have to place your name on a waiting list, but when the device is available for you we’ll notify you and you can borrow it for a week at a time. In addition to being helpful if you do not have internet, it’s also useful if you are travelling. Recently a library patron told me that they don’t have internet access (data) on their cell phone, so they borrowed the device while travelling to access GPS maps. If you are interested in trying out the Borrow the Internet program, ask us at any branch of the library.