Cash boost for library wi-fi

Free Wi-Fi provision in Brighton & Hove’s public libraries is getting an upgrade – thanks to a £33,750 grant.

The money has been awarded as part of an Arts Council funded project to ensure that over 98% of public libraries have easily accessible Wi-Fi. 

The Brighton & Hove funding will upgrade the current public Wi-Fi in all libraries to fibre broadband and also bring the Wireless Access Points (WAPs) up to the new standard. These improvements will increase the speed and capacity of the Wi-Fi in each library so that library users get a better service. The work will take place before March next year.

The funding will also help libraries extend their services and tackle digital exclusion by making it easier for people to develop their digital skills. 

Council Connect volunteers are available in all Brighton & Hove libraries to support people with their digital skills. Sessions are tailored to each individual customer and are intended for those new to computers or who need extra help.  Details of the sessions can be found on the Library web pages.

Councillor Alan Robins, deputy chair of the Economic Development and Culture Committee said: "Over the years our libraries have evolved from places to borrow books to providing a doorway to the World Wide Web. I’d like to thank our library officers for securing this money which will help us to update and improve our services and continue to offer high speed internet access, which is valued by so many of our library users."