SAN ANTONIO (June 23, 2026) – The San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) is launching a new pilot program to provide free Wi-Fi Hotspots to residents in areas of the city where broadband access is limited. SAPL was awarded a $200,000 grant by Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. to develop a Wi-Fi hotspot lending program to increase digital equity and provide better access to education, workforce development, and healthcare services online.
SAPL is making 1,000 Wi-Fi hotspots available to residents from ten library branch locations. The devices will be available at Bazan, Collins Garden, Cortez, Forest Hills, Las Palmas, Memorial, Mission, Pan American, Schaefer and Westfall Branch Libraries.
“These devices will help reduce barriers in some of our most underserved communities,” said Library Director Sukrit Goswami. “Our pilot program empowers residents without broadband access to get online for crucial tasks such as studying for an upcoming test, making healthcare appointments, applying for jobs, and much more. Providing these devices in areas where we know there is a need bridges the digital divide by giving residents reliable internet access at home, on the go or anywhere they need it.”
During the pandemic, the City of San Antonio conducted a study to assess the availability of high-speed internet across the city. That study found that portions of the city’s East, West and South sides, where these branches are located, had limited broadband access available.
Wi-Fi hotspots are available to SAPL cardholders for a 21-day checkout period. The devices cannot be reserved, but wait lists are available if all devices are checked out at a location. To learn more, visit the library’s website.
SAPL also offers internet access at all locations via public desktop and laptop computers for use on library grounds and free Wi-Fi both inside and outside library facilities. Outdoor Wi-Fi is available from 7:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. in marked parking spots and some public outdoor areas. Visitors can connect to the SAPLWiFi network to get started.
For more information about San Antonio Public Library including locations and services, visit MySAPL.org. Library staff is available by phone at 210-207-2500 or by chat at Ask.MySAPL.org.