Library program lets patrons checkout internet devices

Whitefish Community Library cardholders can now bring the internet home thanks to a pilot program by the Montana State Library.

Available for checkout are four Verizon Jetpack hotspots – devices that provide internet service when a cell tower is within range – and two iPad tablets. HP laptops from the State Library are on their way and will be available in December. Patrons with a WCL library card in good standing can check out one or more devices for 14 days.

During the COVID-19, the need for making Internet access mobile in communities has become crucial. As library buildings were shuttered across the Treasure State in March and April, those that depend on Wi-Fi at their public library were left without access for their suddenly growing critical needs — distance learning for children, applying for unemployment benefits, seeking telemedicine options, and ordering necessities for home delivery.

“By providing mobile hot spots to libraries, and through the pilot study, we hope to expand access now, and learn more about the impacts of offering cellular-data devices to Montana’s library patrons so that we can best support Montanans to thrive,” Montana State Librarian, Jennie Stapp said.

The Montana State Library helps all organizations, communities, and Montanans thrive through excellent library resources and services. For more information about the Montana State Library, visit http://msl.mt.gov. For details about borrowing devices from Whitefish Community Library, call (406)862-9914 or visit whitefishlibrary.org.