Public Internet Access Restored at Saint Paul Public Library and Parks and Recreation Facilities

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASESeptember 18, 2025CONTACTJennifer "JLor" [email protected](651) 417-9454SAINT PAUL - Today, public internet access has been restored at all Saint Paul Public Library locations and recreation centers as the city continues its system recovery.On July 25, the city initiated a full system shutdown in response to a digital security incident. Although the incident didn't compromise public internet access, the city paused the service as a precaution to prevent any potential pathway between public use and internal systems."The restoration of our public internet network took an incredible amount of work and marks a huge milestone in our recovery," said Mayor Carter. "For so many of our residents, this connection is a lifeline to work, education, applying for jobs, and seeking opportunity. Our community is ready to move forward together."City staff restored systems, including public internet access, after they thoroughly tested, validated, and secured them with modern safeguards. The restored service ensures residents can once again rely on free internet access for work, school, and daily life."Reliable internet in our libraries has never been more important," said Library Deputy Director of Public Services Rebecca Ryan. "By fully restoring public internet access and public printing, we can once again offer students, families, and job seekers the tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive in their neighborhood libraries."For thousands of Saint Paul residents, public internet access is not a luxury-it's a lifeline.

• Students use it for schoolwork, research, and digital learning.
• Job seekers depend on it to apply for jobs, complete training, and connect with employers.
• Families and seniors rely on it to stay connected and access essential online services.

"Whether it's a teen connecting after school or a family using our recreation centers together, restoring public internet access ensures it's available where community happens," said Parks and Recreation Director Andy Rodriguez. "This is a critical step forward for equity across our neighborhoods."

The return of public internet access comes with strengthened safeguards that protect city systems while ensuring accessibility including:

• Segmented and secure public internet traffic that is entirely separated from the city's internal networks.
• Simpler access with fewer steps and log-ins.
• An open network ensures residents seeking public access can safely access it.

In addition to restoring public internet access, the city has restored many core systems that residents and staff use daily. On September 17, the city launched PAULIE, Saint Paul's new permitting and licensing platform. The city also restored key tools including financial and payment platforms, geographic information systems, phones and email, legislative and public meeting systems, and core library systems. Together, these restorations reflect steady progress in strengthening operations and ensuring reliable service delivery.

Public computers and printing services are available now at every library location. Access to public internet is taking place at other city facilities as recovery efforts continue. For FAQs with best practices for safe browsing habits and ongoing updates, visit stpaul.gov/digitalsecurityincident.

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Last Edited: September 18, 2025