BEDFORD-STUYVESANT — Bed-Stuy residents and visitors to Brooklyn’s Macon Library can now connect to their own Wi-Fi thanks to a free, mobile hot spot program.
The Brooklyn Public Library linked dozens of cardholders to wireless Internet devices at the Macon branch on Lewis Avenue Monday morning as part of a citywide initiative to provide broadband access to community members.
Under the program, individuals can borrow the hot spots for up to a year to access the Internet.
“One of the most important things that we do at the library these days is, we try and help people who are on what I call ‘the wrong side’ of the digital divide,” said Linda E. Johnson, BPL’s president and CEO.
“We’re not only lending books, material, DVDs and all of the content, but we’re actually lending the device and now even the ability to connect devices at home.”
A total of 50 pocket-sized portable hot spots were made available to visitors at the Macon Library Monday as part of an initiative that launched in December 2014.
Since the program’s inception, BPL has distributed nearly two-thirds of its 3,000 Internet hubs, officials said.
The pilot plan for 22 Brooklyn branches is part of a collaboration between BPL, Google and the Knight News Challenge and aims to bring internet access to 10,000 households throughout the city.
The equipment can connect up to nine devices and library patrons must register for an on-site orientation at their local branch.
Borrowers must be 17 or older, have a valid Brooklyn Public Library card with less than $15 in fines, present identification and have no Internet access at home.
“With my current work situation, having to get an Internet plan and dealing with my apartment, it’s just easier to use this,” said Anthony Marc, 27, who was waiting to register Monday.
“It’s one less thing to worry about as far as paying bills.”
For more information, visit the Brooklyn Public Library website.
