NYPL Offers Free Wi-Fi Service
Wireless Internet at branches in the Bronx and Manhattan
By Michael Rogers -- Library Journal, 1/15/2004
The New York Public Library (NYPL) has introduced free Wi-Fi Internet access at 53 branch locations throughout Manhattan and the Bronx. The library said that patrons bringing in their own wireless-equipped laptops will have access to "the entire range of full-text databases normally accessible from the library's own computers," as well as Internet access.
Computers must be equipped with an 802.11b Wi-Fi Ethernet interface card; the high-speed wireless connections are available during operating hours only. Several libraries also will be using Wi-Fi-equipped laptops for PC training as part of NYPL's Click On @ the Library program of computer instruction.
The Wi-Fi service is funded through the Federal Universal Service Discount program. Initially, 34 branches in the Bronx and 19 Manhattan locations will be offering the service, but others will join those ranks when additional funding becomes available.
