San Antonio Public Library Launches Free Wi-Fi Hotspot Lending Program to Bridge Digital Divide
The San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) is launching a new pilot program that will allow residents to check out free Wi-Fi hotspots from select library branches, expanding internet access in neighborhoods where broadband service remains limited.
Funded by a $200,000 grant from Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, the one-year pilot program will provide 1,000 portable Wi-Fi hotspots to help residents connect to online education, workforce development, healthcare services and other essential resources.
The hotspots will be available for checkout at the following library branches:
- Bazan
- Collins Garden
- Cortez
- Forest Hills
- Las Palmas
- Memorial
- Mission
- Pan American
- Schaefer
- Westfall
Library Director Sukrit Goswami said the devices are designed to reduce barriers in underserved communities by providing reliable internet access wherever residents need it.
Eligible library cardholders may check out a hotspot for 21 days. If all devices are currently checked out, patrons can join a waiting list. If demand remains high throughout the pilot, officials estimate the program could serve approximately 17,000 residents over the course of the year.
The pilot targets areas identified during the pandemic as having limited broadband access, particularly portions of San Antonio’s East, West and South sides. While SAPL already offers free Wi-Fi and computer access inside every library branch, the new lending program extends internet access beyond library walls and into residents’ homes.
To learn more visit the library’s website.
