Rochester Public Library looks to expand broadband access using federal grant
The Rochester Public Library has been awarded a $619,000 federal grant to help expand broadband access in the area.
The grant, part of the FCC’s Emergency Connectivity Fund program, will allow the library to purchase 1,000 Chromebook with built-in WiFi.
The goal is to then work with community partners to distribute the laptops to individuals who lack adequate broadband connectivity.
“We are leveraging the expertise of our local nonprofits, government colleagues, and schools to make sure we reach individuals with already-identified needs,” said library director Audrey Betcher. “We expect the demand to be high for these devices, and by leveraging our partnerships we can be more efficient in rolling out the program.”
RPL was among 260 libraries in the nation — along with 3,040 schools and 24 other organizations — to receive a grant as part of the first wave of funding from the FCC, which totaled $1.2 billion. Federal officials say the program will help bridge the digital divide by supplying students and families with 3,081,131 devices and 774,115 broadband connections.
According to the library, nonprofits serving under-resourced residents are invited to reach out if interested in learning more about the program. The initial checkout period would be good through June of next year.
