Ontario Expanding Internet Access in First Nations Libraries

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TORONTO ― The Ontario government is protecting First Nations and rural communities by investing $660,000 through the Internet Connectivity Grant program, expanding access to free, reliable internet service at local public libraries. With a $78,000 funding increase this year, an additional 30 public libraries will be able to join the program, meaning all First Nation Public Libraries and four additional rural libraries will be fully reimbursed for the costs of providing public internet access, ensuring free and reliable connectivity within these communities.

"Public libraries are a vital hub in any community that connects people to learning, culture and one another," said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. "This increased funding will ensure dependable access to essential digital tools and resources in communities across the province. By supporting public libraries, we are protecting community spaces that empower people of all ages to learn and develop the skills they need to succeed."

In addition to borrowing books and other reading materials, Ontarians rely on their local public library to receive online tutoring and homework assistance, access job training resources, learn or improve their language skills and build and maintain social connections. According to Toronto Public Libraries' 2023-24 Impact of Technology Services in Ontario Libraries Report- which surveyed 22 libraries and nearly 6,500 respondents across the province - nearly one in three northern Ontarians without home internet rely on public libraries for online access to remote education, job searches and more.

"Public libraries are essential access points for high-speed internet, particularly in small, rural, and First Nations communities where subscription costs are high and at-home service is limited or unavailable," said Michelle Arbuckle, Executive Director, Ontario Library Association. "We thank the Ontario Government for expanding the Internet Connectivity Grant, which will ensure more Ontarians can connect close to home, giving them the tools they need for education, entrepreneurship, and job readiness-no matter where in Ontario they live."

Since 2018, the Internet Connectivity Grant program has provided the province's public libraries with more than $4.3 million to ensure the communities they serve have reliable internet access.

"Accessible and reliable internet elevates education, economic opportunities, and community connection," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation. "In expanding the Internet Connectivity Grant, we are ensuring that all First Nation public libraries can continue providing this critical service at no cost to their communities."

Quick Facts

Quotes

"The Federation of Ontario Public Libraries applauds the Ontario Government taking action to extend eligibility for the Internet Connectivity Grant to more Ontario public libraries. This grant funding is critical to ensuring that public libraries serving rural and Northern Ontario, as well as First Nations, can provide residents in these communities with accessible, reliable broadband internet connectivity. Public libraries are proud to be an important partner in fulfilling Ontario's goal of making high speed internet accessible in every community."

- Dina Stevens
Executive Director, Federation of Ontario Public Libraries