Sioux City Times

Sioux City Public Library has received more than $1 million in funding from the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a federal program to help schools and libraries address the gap for those who currently lack necessary Internet access, or the devices needed to connect to online resources. 

With this funding, the Library launched the Internet for All initiative, a program that makes 1900 internet-enabled devices connected on T-Mobile’s nationwide network available now for checkout through the Sioux City Public Library.

“The Emergency Connectivity Fund aims to help public libraries build upon their success and address broadband needs in the communities they support,” said Helen Rigdon, Director for Sioux City Public Library. “Participating libraries are then able to start or expand hotspot and laptop lending programs that otherwise would be cost-prohibitive. 

In Sioux City, 17.8%, or over 30,000, households reported they do not have broadband internet access at home. For some of our patrons, this will be a lifeline, connecting them to opportunities they would not have had otherwise.”

In addition to providing Internet for All devices directly to residents at Sioux City Public Library locations, the Sioux City Public Library will partner with community organizations to provide access to these devices to those they serve.

“Community groups have a direct connection with those they serve and knowledge of those in need in our community,” say Rigdon. “Partnering with these groups and making the Internet for All resources available to them directly, gives our community partners the autonomy to decide how to best connect their patrons to the program.”

More and more, digital devices and the skills to use them are necessary to fully participate in society.  Those without reliable access to the internet are at a severe disadvantage in education, the workforce, and private life. Students without internet or the devices to access it face difficulties completing homework assignments compared to those with home access. 

Similarly, adults and households without internet or without highspeed service encounter increased costs including loss of work time and limited services. Internet for All through the Sioux City Public Library hopes to help fill this gap by providing Sioux Cityans internet connection and internet-enabled devices for free during 2023.

All Sioux City residents with a Sioux City Public Library Card in good standing are eligible to check out an internet-enabled device from the Library while supplies last.Need a Library card? Visit any Sioux City Public Library location to receive an application. Please bring a photo ID. A list of acceptable ID verification can be found on our website at Siouxcitylibrary.org/services.

Original source can be found here.