Yorktown Library to Offer Mobile Hotspot Lending
The John C. Hart Memorial Library will offer mobile Wi-Fi lending as one of its new initiatives in 2022.
The library’s new hotspot program begins January 28. Patrons may check out a device that allows the borrower to have a portable Wi-Fi signal anywhere.
“During the pandemic lockdowns, the digital divide became more acute in communities nationwide,” said library director Yvonne Cech. “With the portable hotspots, members of our community who do not have internet service at home can now access the web from the privacy of their homes for school or work.”
A hotspot is a small electronic device that produces a Wi-Fi signal that users can access by searching for Wi-Fi signals on their devices. Hotspots are typically password-protected to ensure that the users have a secure Wi-Fi connection. Across the country, libraries have launched hotspot-lending programs to provide remote learning and working options to those with no internet service at home.
Other library initiatives this year include:
- A new 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program for children under 5.
- Increased children’s programs.
- A resumption of the free AARP tax assistance program.
- Free cell phone and computer tech help from teen volunteers on Friday afternoons.
Last year, the library replaced its outdated network wiring and Wi-Fi coverage to allow for faster processing on the public computers and faster speeds on the library’s Wi-Fi. The library also resumed a popular music-streaming program.
Contact: Yvonne Cech, Director, John C. Hart Library, (914) 245-5262
