Access to reliable internet has become essential for everything from education and healthcare to job searches and everyday communication. To help more residents stay connected, the San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) is launching a new pilot program that allows library cardholders to check out free Wi-Fi hotspots from select branch locations across the city.
The program is funded through a $200,000 grant from Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. and is designed to improve digital equity in neighborhoods where broadband access remains limited. By providing portable internet access, SAPL hopes to remove barriers that prevent residents from accessing online resources for school, work, healthcare, and other important services.
“These devices will help reduce barriers in some of our most underserved communities,” said Library Director Sukrit Goswami. “Our pilot program empowers residents without broadband access to get online for crucial tasks such as studying for an upcoming test, making healthcare appointments, applying for jobs, and much more. Providing these devices in areas where we know there is a need bridges the digital divide by giving residents reliable internet access at home, on the go, or anywhere they need it.”
A total of 1,000 Wi-Fi hotspots are available through ten participating library branches: Bazan, Collins Garden, Cortez, Forest Hills, Las Palmas, Memorial, Mission, Pan American, Schaefer, and Westfall. Library cardholders may check out a hotspot for up to 21 days. While devices cannot be reserved in advance, patrons can join a waiting list if all hotspots at their preferred branch are currently checked out.
The initiative builds on a broadband study conducted by the City of San Antonio during the COVID-19 pandemic, which identified several areas on the city’s East, West, and South sides as having limited access to high-speed internet. Many of the participating library branches are located within those communities, helping ensure the program reaches residents who need it most.
Beyond the new hotspot lending program, SAPL continues to provide free internet access at all library locations through public desktop and laptop computers, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi inside each branch. Outdoor Wi-Fi is also available daily from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. in designated parking areas and select outdoor spaces, allowing visitors to connect to the SAPLWiFi network even when the library is closed.
Residents interested in checking out a Wi-Fi hotspot or learning more about library services can visit MySAPL.org, call 210-207-2500, or chat online through Ask.MySAPL.org. As internet access continues to play an increasingly important role in everyday life, this pilot program provides another valuable resource to help connect San Antonio residents with education, employment opportunities, healthcare services, and the digital tools they need to succeed.
