Press release

Wireless Internet access points are now available at checkout at DMPL
New program will provide residents with free high-speed Internet access

DES MOINES, IOWA – Monday, November 15, 2021 – Des Moines Public Library now offers wireless Internet access points for cardholders. The hotspots were purchased with a $ 164,000 grant from the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a federal program funded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The goal of the federal program is to provide high-speed Internet access to those who do not have broadband access.

The library has purchased 500 access points, 100 of which are now available for two-week withdrawals at any DMPL location. These can also be booked online.

In addition, 400 hotspots will be checked for long-term use by residents (until June 30, 2022) who do not have internet access at home. The library works with community organizations to help identify those who may be most affected by this opportunity.

“One of the most important strategic initiatives of the Des Moines Public Library is to help bridge the digital divide that exists in our community,” said Susan A. Woody, Director of DMPL. “By providing hundreds of wireless Internet access points for those who do not have easy access to high-speed Internet, we can provide opportunities for learning, work, job search, and more.

Hotspots are handheld electronic devices that provide households with high-speed wireless Internet access. The devices connect smartphones, laptops and tablets to the internet. There is no charge for customers to verify an access point, but those interested must have an active library card, be 18 years of age or older, and live in Des Moines, rural Polk County or Windsor. Heights.

Devices will be checked on a first come, first served basis. Anyone who views a hotspot must also sign a hotspot payment agreement. Late and loss fees apply.

For more information on the library’s hotspot program, visit dmpl.org/hotspots, or call us at (515) 283-4152.

Contact
Tim Paluch
Marketing & Communication Supervisor
Monks Public Library
(515) 283-4288
[email protected]

About the Monks Public Library
Founded in 1866, Des Moines Public Library is the city of Des Moines public library network. With six branches and a collection of nearly 500,000 items, the Des Moines Public Library is the largest public library system in the state of Iowa. To get a FREE map of the Des Moines Public Library, go to dmpl.org/get-carded.