The Wichita Public Library has established a new internet connectivity program to provide 250 internet bundles for library cardholders to borrow. Each bundle comes with a Google Chromebook 3100 laptop, a T-Mobile hotspot, and a how-to guide for using these devices.

The Library received $150,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) as apart of the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program. The program provides funding to schools and libraries for the costs of computers and internet connectivity for residents who lack access internet services. 

“This service gives the Library a unique opportunity to bridge the digital divide in Wichita by giving residents with low or no internet connectivity at home the tools they need to access necessary infrastructure from home,” said Jaime Prothro, Director of Libraries.

Internet Bundle Checkout Details

• Internet bundles can be checked out for up to 28 days at a time, with a limit of one device per library card. Internet bundles can be placed on hold and may be renewed up to 2 times if no one is on the waiting list.

• If an internet bundle is not returned on time, it will accrue a 25¢ per day overdue fee up to a maximum of $5.

• Borrowers will need to attest that they either lack or have insufficient access to the internet or connected devices at checkout.

• Residents must have a library card in good standing to use this service. 

Cardholders can also check out Chromebooks from the library’s portable device dispenser for use anywhere inside the Advanced Learning Library. Chromebooks can be checked out free of charge for up to 3 hours at a time, once per day, but may not leave the library. 

Call (316) 261-8500 or visit catalog.wichitalibrary.org to place a hold on an internet bundle.