Lewis County Public Library and Archives announces the availability of additional mobile hotspots for patron use. The South Central TN Workforce Alliance recently donated five hotspots to the library's popular hotspot lending program, which allows library card holders to check out a mobile internet device for a seven-day period. This donation increases the number of hotspots available at the library to 20 devices.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical need for Internet access. While access to the Internet is available through library computers or via Wi-Fi that can be accessed from a personal device inside the library during business hours or from the library parking lot 24/7, sometimes that's just not enough. The library's mobile hotspots allow residents to access the Internet anywhere there is a cell phone signal-whether at home, in the car, or on trip.

"The South Central TN Workforce Alliance is thrilled to donate hotspots to libraries in our region through funds received from the TN Community CARES grant. This will allow libraries to loan devices to areas with limited internet access to aid in at home job opportunities, job search and educational attainment for those affected by the pandemic," stated Tonja Garrett, Chief Operating Officer, South Central TN Workforce Alliance.

Many residents have already benefitted since the library started its hotspot lending program in 2017. Fifty-one residents borrowed hotspots between October and December 2020. One borrower commented on a feedback survey that, "We have many bills so we can't afford Internet and it works perfect for what I use it for." Completed surveys indicate that although entertainment use is popular, 72% of borrowers use the device for educational purposes and 27% for business purposes.

"Broadband Internet access is often taken for granted as something that's readily and easily available. But despite efforts to extend broadband access to all, many people here either don't have or can't afford broadband Internet," said Crystal Nash, Director at Lewis County Public Library and Archives. "We are grateful to the South Central Workforce Alliance for donating the devices to help improve residents' access to the Internet."

The new Kajeet hotspots will provide unlimited data on the Verizon network which will be helpful to those that are needing access to video and other data-heavy resources. Up to 10 devices may connect to the hotspot at a time. Residents wanting to borrow a mobile hotspot will need to have an active library card, show a photo ID, and fill out a borrower's agreement. Parents will need to borrow the device on behalf of their children. The device can be kept for 7 days. The data will be turned off after that time to encourage return for the next patron to use it. Library patrons can place a hotspot on hold and when it becomes available, they will be contacted to check it out.

For more information about the hotspot lending program, residents are invited to stop by the library at 15 Kyle Avenue or by calling 931-796-5365.