File photo of the Main Branch of the Lethbridge Public Library (Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet

Lethbridge Public Library launches ‘Internet on the Go’ program

Mar 1, 2021 | 9:59 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge Public Library has a new service that will allow you to access the Internet wherever you are.

The Internet on the Go service launches today, March 1. It’s a way for community members to borrow Chromebooks and/or MiFi hotspot devices from the library in order to access the Internet on their own schedule, in their own homes.

“Bridging the digital divide is core to Lethbridge Public Library’s role,” said Madeline Gormley, Manager of Information Services.

“Online access today is more essential than ever in our community, particularly as we work to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. This service offers critical tools for those who may not have Internet access to participate in community life, connect with friends and family, and access information and services.”

Customers that have a membership to the library that “is in good standing” and who are over the age of 12 can utilize the service.

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To do so, they must:

• Phone or email the library’s Computer Service line and let staff know what devices they would like to check out.
• Staff will schedule a pick-up time where members can pick up the device at the Main Branch in downtown Lethbridge.
• At the appointed time, members can visit the Main Branch and call the number posted on the sign outside the Interne on the Go entrance (found at the south end of the parking lot, to the right of the Curbside Pick Up parking spots), or ring the Internet on the Go doorbell. Staff will then guide members through the contactless pick-up process.

Both Chromebooks and hotspots are available for one-week loans. They cannot be renewed.

Items have to be returned within 24-hours after the one-week check-out.

The Lethbridge Public Library says staff will disable any items that are not returned on time. Once disabled, the devices will not function again until they are returned, and library staff have restored them.

Returns have to happen at the Internet on the Go entrance, and the devices cannot be dropped off through the book drops.

The Internet on the Go service is funded in part through a donation by the Friends of the Lethbridge Public Library.

PRINTING ON THE GO

In addition to the Internet on the Go program, the library is offering Printing on the Go.

Customers can email what they need printed to print@lethlib.ca. Further details can be found here.