The Indianapolis Public Library is temporarily suspending its free Wi-Fi hot spot lending program.
The last day to check out a hot spot through the library is Nov. 20.
This is due to funding cuts to the E-Rate program made by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in September. The program helps school districts and libraries nationwide obtain affordable high-speed internet access.
Mirror Indy reached out to Indianapolis Public Library officials to learn more about the program’s future. In a statement, library spokesperson Keisha McEntire wrote:
“Fortunately, our team had already begun planning for how to continue offering hot spot checkouts.
“As with all our resources and programs that serve our community, we try to proactively explore alternative funding sources in the event the current budget becomes unavailable.”
The Wi-Fi hot spot devices are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and are only available to library cardholders whose accounts are in good standing. They cannot be held, renewed or requested in advance. A household can use one device for up to three weeks.
McEntire said Indianapolis Public Library plans to bring the program back in 2026 at select locations, which will be chosen “based on community demand.”
“With more anticipated budget tightening in 2026, leadership at the Indianapolis Public Library will evaluate the program’s future after 2026.”
All Wi-Fi hotspots must be returned by the due date or before Dec.11.
Here’s a list of branch locations where you can rent a device:
- Beech Grove, 1102 Main St.
- College Avenue, 4180 N. College Ave.
- Eagle, 3905 Moller Road
- East 38th Street, 5420 E. 38th St.
- East Washington, 2822 E. Washington St.
- Garfield Park, 2502 Shelby St.
- InfoZone, 3000 N. Meridian St.
- Irvington, 10 S. Audubon Road
- Lawrence, 7898 Hague Road
- Martindale Brightwood, 2434 N. Sherman Drive
- Southport, 2630 E. Stop 11 Road
- Spades Park, 1801 Nowland Ave.
- Warren, 9701 E. 21st St.
- Wayne, 198 S. Girls School Road
- West Indianapolis, 1216 S. Kappes St.
Mirror Indy reporter Mesgana Waiss covers arts and culture. Contact her at 317-667-2643 or mesgana.waiss@mirrorindy.org.
Mirror Indy, a nonprofit newsroom, is funded through grants and donations from individuals, foundations and organizations.
Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license.
