The SDSU Extension and AARP South Dakota Rural Library Hotspot Lending Program provides hotspot lending through rural public libraries, allowing community members to “check out the Internet” and bring connectivity to the comfort of their homes.
Our pilot program begins in 2025 with four partner libraries, with plans to expand each year as the program grows.
Each library will receive multiple hotspot devices, with one year of unlimited data fully funded through the program.
The following libraries are currently participating in the program:
- Lemmon Public Library
- Hot Springs Public Library
- Faulk County Library
- Sinte Gleska University Library
Importance
About 1 in 5 households in South Dakota don’t have an internet subscription, according to the 2022 Census. In some counties, more than 30% of households are unconnected, and in a few, the number exceeds 40%.
Access to reliable internet is a basic need for every home today. Without it, families not only struggle with schoolwork, job searches, and telehealth, but also miss out on free digital resources offered by South Dakota libraries, such as e-books, job search platforms, and online tools that support everyday needs.
Here’s how the program supports families:
- Complete homework and stay engaged in school
- Search and apply for jobs online
- Access vital services, including healthcare and government support
- Stay connected with friends, family, and their local library
Eligible Participants
Any rural South Dakota library is eligible to apply. Each library selected to be part of the program will receive mobile hotspots with internet service at no cost for one year. Libraries will be responsible for setting circulation policies (such as loan duration, late return fees, and other usage guidelines) and for collecting required surveys from patrons who check out the devices.
For more information about the program or how to participate, contact Whoi Cho, Assistant Professor of Applied Economics, or Sarah Sellars, Assistant Professor & SDSU Extension Sustainable Farm & Food Systems Specialist.
Funding Acknowledgement
This program has been funded, in part, by AARP South Dakota.
