Federal Funding for Libraries Bridges the Digital Divide Through Hotspot Lending
In the 21st century, internet access is inextricably linked to work, school, and a majority of our social lives. Yet, there is still a large swath of the country, both rural and urban, that lacks access.
What is the digital divide?
The digital divide is defined as the gap in access to digital technologies, the internet, and digital literacy training. While access to technology like computers and smartphones has increased over the years, cost and availability are still cited as major barriers to access.
According to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), 1 in 5 U.S. households is not connected to the internet. Of the over 4 million households offline, 18 percent cited expense as a barrier to the internet, while an additional 4 percent cited a lack of infrastructure.
How IMLS Helps Bridge this Gap
During the Covid 19 pandemic, these gaps in connectivity became a greater obstacle to students and employees who were sent home but still expected to work. At the same time, most libraries, one of the few places with free public access to technology, Wi-Fi, and digital skills learning, were also shuttered. Libraries had to find creative solutions to meet their community's needs.
With additional funds from the CARES Act, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) helped libraries expand digital access, acquire internet-enabled devices, and provide technical support to their communities.
Today, while almost all libraries provide access to in-house computers, copiers, and scanners, newer technology still isn’t as universally available. According to the 2023 Public Library Technology Survey, 47% of libraries offer a hotspot lending program, an increase from 2020. Some also lend devices like laptops, e-readers, and gaming consoles for off-site use, though less frequently.
Hotspot lending programs are popular, often resulting in long waitlists.
Another way libraries have addressed the digital divide is by expanding their on-site Wi-Fi. Patrons can access Wi-Fi through their own devices, after-hours, in the area surrounding the library. Some libraries have repurposed their bookmobiles as roaming hotspots, extending public library services to areas outside the normal library reach.
IMLS provides significant federal funding to libraries through direct Grants to States. Each state library agency must submit a 5-year plan that aligns with the Library Services and Technology (LSTA) Act. In a recent analysis of state library 5-year plans, 71% of libraries plan to make significant investments in expanding broadband access.
In 2024, the Federal Communications Commision (FCC) updated their policy on the E-Rate Program to include off-site hotspots, making it more affordable for libraries to provide free internet to their patrons. The update also clarified that Tribal libraries qualify for E-Rate funding, ensuring they have access to these resources. Following the announcement, the FCC partnered with IMLS to raise awareness of the change among Tribal libraries and organizations.
The recent Administration’s actions
Following an executive order, this administration has put all IMLS employees on administrative leave. This will affect your library’s ability to provide digital resources to those with the most barriers to them.
To learn more on how to support IMLS visit SaveIMLS.org