Libraries offer free hotspot checkouts through partnership

YORK COUNTY, S.C. (InvestigateTV) - Connecting to the internet is a crucial part of the day-to-day life for many Americans. That can include paying bills or looking up information, but millions still lack reliable access.

To help close that gap, some libraries are offering hotspots to give their communities as much access as they can.

York County Libraries have partnered with nonprofit telecommunications company Mission Telecom to expand free Wi-Fi hotspot lending to library cardholders, with more than 200 devices are now available across library branches.

The partnership, which began in January, significantly expanded a program the library system had already been running with a smaller inventory. The system previously had only a few dozen hotspots spread across five branches.

Program targets digital divide

Mission Telecom reports about 17% of people in South Carolina do not have access to the internet. Nationally, the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey estimates about 8 million U.S. households remain without internet access.

Mark Colwell, interim executive director of Mission Telecom, said the program is designed to address that gap.

“One of the stats that we pay attention to is how different groups are able to get online, and so about 2 out of 5 low-income households don’t have a home internet subscription,” Colwell said. “So, this program is really valuable so folks can get online and take advantage of being on the internet.”

How the program works

Hotspots are available to library members only. Each device is packaged in a protective bag and comes with instructions. Library staff said the devices are restricted to educational use — online gaming and streaming are not permitted.

If a device is not returned, it can be remotely deactivated, and the borrower will be fined.

Stacy Williams, with the York County Library, said demand for the devices has been high.

“We see a lot of patrons come in and check out the devices,” Williams said. “They have expressed gratitude being able to check these devices out — working from home, checking email, connected to families.”

At one branch, roughly 40 hotspots can be checked out at a time. On the day of the report, only a few were available.

Benefits beyond connectivity

Library officials said the hotspots provide access to services including online banking, education, telehealth, civic participation, and community information.

Thomas Hildebrand, a dog care business owner and library patron, said the program has reduced his monthly expenses.

“The hotspots that we check out have been great,” Hildebrand said. “I have a business, a dog care business, and I do mostly overnight sitting.”

He said the savings add up quickly.

“The receipt that you get when you check one out says you save $200 each time you use it, so that’s a game changer,” Hildebrand said.

Looking ahead

The library anticipates approximately 4,000 hotspot checkouts this year through the collaboration.

“There is a demand for them, so hopefully we can add more devices as we continue the program and be able to afford them,” Colwell said.