The San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) is now lending out something that can’t be shelved. As part of a new pilot program, it will be putting 1,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots into circulation, aiming to bring broadband to the city’s most historically overlooked areas.

Although reliable internet may be an afterthought for many San Antonians, access is not universal. In 2020, the City of San Antonio conducted a study that found many hurdles to access, including a lack of devices, cost, and spotty service — especially on the economically disadvantaged East, West, and South Sides.

Using a $200,000 grant from Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, SAPL launched the program in hopes of increasing digital equity in education, the workforce, and healthcare.

“These devices will help reduce barriers in some of our most underserved communities,” explained Library Director Sukrit Goswami, in a release. “Our pilot program empowers residents without broadband access to get online for crucial tasks such as studying for an upcoming test, making healthcare appointments, applying for jobs, and much more.”

The hotspots are now available for a 21-day checkout at 10 locations. While they can’t be reserved, a waiting list ensures those interested in the service won’t have to make multiple trips.Participating branches include:

• Bazan (2200 W. Commerce St.)
• Collins Garden (200 N. Park Blvd.)
• Cortez (2803 Hunter Blvd.)
• Forest Hills (5245 Ingram Rd.)
• Las Palmas (515 Castroville Rd.)
• Memorial (3222 Culebra Rd.)
• Mission (3134 Roosevelt Ave.)
• Pan American (1122 W. Pyron Ave.)
• Schaefer (6322 US Hwy 87 E.)
• Westfall (6111 Rosedale Ct.)

The hotspots add to SAPL’s existing internet services, including public computers and free Wi-Fi, both inside and outside the branches. The outdoor signal runs 7:30 am-10:30 pm in marked parking spots and some public areas, reachable on the SAPLWiFi network.