For many Canadians, the local library is not just a place for books — it’s their entry point to the digital world. Free Wi-Fi, computer terminals, device lending, and staff support make libraries essential digital access hubs.
Why Libraries Matter for Digital Access
Bridging the gap: They serve people who can’t afford reliable internet or devices at home.
Trusted support: Librarians often double as informal tech mentors, helping patrons set up email, print resumes, or navigate online services.
Community anchors: Unlike private internet cafés or co-working spaces, libraries are free and accessible to all.
Safe and neutral spaces: People can learn and explore without fear of being sold something or judged for their digital skills.
Canadian Context
Urban-rural divides: City libraries may offer full makerspaces and 3D printing, while rural branches might be the only public internet access point for miles.
Device lending: Some library systems lend out Wi-Fi hotspots or tablets to families without home connections.
Government reliance: As more services move online, libraries are expected to fill the gap when citizens can’t access portals on their own.
Equity gaps: Inconsistent funding means not all communities benefit equally — some branches thrive, while others barely keep terminals running.
The Challenges
Underfunding: Technology is costly to maintain and upgrade.
Staff training: Librarians are rarely given formal IT training, yet are expected to help patrons navigate increasingly complex systems.
Growing demand: As more essential services go digital, library usage spikes without proportional funding.
Policy blind spots: Policymakers often overlook libraries when planning digital infrastructure.
The Opportunities
Treating libraries as digital infrastructure: Recognizing them alongside broadband projects.
Expanding device lending: Making hotspot and laptop lending a standard service.
Public-private partnerships: Collaborating with tech companies, but without compromising public trust.
National strategy: Building a Canada-wide plan for libraries as central nodes in the digital ecosystem.
The Bigger Picture
If Canada is serious about bridging the digital divide, it can’t just focus on cables and towers. It also needs people, places, and programs — and libraries are already doing that work.
The Question
Should libraries be formally recognized (and funded) as part of Canada’s digital infrastructure strategy — just like broadband expansion — rather than being treated as optional community extras?
Libraries as Digital Access Hubs
More Than a Quiet Place to Read
For many Canadians, the local library is not just a place for books — it’s their entry point to the digital world. Free Wi-Fi, computer terminals, device lending, and staff support make libraries essential digital access hubs.
Why Libraries Matter for Digital Access
Canadian Context
The Challenges
The Opportunities
The Bigger Picture
If Canada is serious about bridging the digital divide, it can’t just focus on cables and towers. It also needs people, places, and programs — and libraries are already doing that work.
The Question
Should libraries be formally recognized (and funded) as part of Canada’s digital infrastructure strategy — just like broadband expansion — rather than being treated as optional community extras?