Lawrence library now offering laptop and hot spot lending program, as well as expanded internet access

photo by: Mike Yoder
Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont St., is pictured Aug. 20, 2015.
The Lawrence Public Library is now offering laptop and hot spot lending, free internet service for qualifying low-income households and permanent outdoor wireless internet service around the building’s perimeter.
A news press release from the library, 707 Vermont St., said the library received the funding for its Digital Equity Project though a federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act grant.
“When the library was shut down due to COVID-19, a huge digital equity gap emerged in our community,” Brad Allen, director of the Lawrence Public Library, said in the release. “Suddenly, many people who depend on the library for computers and internet access did not have the ability to apply for unemployment, food assistance, housing support, and other essential resources. It was a serious problem.”
Laptop and hot spot lending will be available for checkout directly from the library and also through partnering nonprofit organizations who will have access to long-term loans from the library. The outdoor wireless internet service can be accessed around the perimeter of the building, on the lawn, near the Greyhound bus stop and in the parking areas nearest the library on Kentucky, Seventh and Vermont streets. Free, one-year home internet access will be available to low-income residents through the federal Lifeline program. This service is limited to 200 households on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants must be approved through a National Verifier system, and assistance with the certification process will be available through the library and its partnering nonprofit organizations.
“We are excited to offer these important new services to our patrons and low-income neighbors,” Allen said in the release. “Together with our community partners, the library is committed to closing the digital equity gap in Lawrence.”