The pilot program participants will start by meeting with Library Director Peggy Havener and Graphics Technician Michelle Gurung to learn how the hotspot works with their devices and to complete a baseline survey.

During the next six weeks, participants will be interviewed several times on how the hotspot is working for them and to share with the librarians their opinion of the service and what impact has it had on them or their family members.

According to a press release, it is the opinion of the library staff that internet access is no longer a luxury. The only way to apply for most jobs in Freeborn County is online. Many students can only afford to go to college through online distance learning programs and school-age children use online services for homework help.

These are a few of the services that are not available to individuals who cannot afford to have Internet access at home.

“The cost of 15 Hotspots for 10 months is $6,890. The Albert Lea Public Library Foundation is funding $5,000 of that cost. We are in the process of applying for grants that will allow us to expand this program to include 100 hotspots,” Havener said. “It is a daunting task but I believe that Internet access is an essential part of library services. Part of the library’s mission is to connect our patrons with the information they need and with the community they live in. Our hotspot program will accomplish both of those objectives. The digital age is here and this program will help bridge the digital divide that exists in our community.”

Area businesses, organizations or individuals who are interested in sponsoring a hotspot for a year at a cost of $600 are invited to contact Havener at the library.