King County Library System Foundation (King County Library System)

The King County Library System in Issaquah, Washington, will expand internet access for populations for whom broadband availability is limited and connectivity fees are cost prohibitive. The initiative will focus on four high-need communities across King County, namely seniors; K–12 students; people experiencing homelessness; and Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) households. The library will purchase 134 hotspots and will cover monthly costs of connection services. The project will help close the digital divide in these communities by using mobile technologies to provide access beyond the walls of library buildings. Loaning internet-connected hardware to populations most affected by the pandemic will enable them to access vital resources and connect to pathways that can help drive recovery.