The Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County (PLYMC) received $170,000 from the Electronic Connectivity Fund (ECF) to buy new mobile WiFi hotspots, iPads, and necessary data plans for patrons to use at home for free.

PLYMC purchased 50 new hotspots and 150 iPads. Additionally, the funds will be used to reimburse the library for its existing 144 hotspots and pay for the data plans for the devices. 

PLYMC Executive Director and CEO Aimee Fifarek say the need for internet access is increasing significantly in today's society, and PLYMC is now stepping in to help local families.

"This grant will help our patrons get online from the comfort of their own home for school, work, paying bills, connecting with family and friends, and of course, just for fun," Fifarek said.

In 2016, PLYMC launched its free Mobile WiFi Hotspot Rental Program, which allowed patrons to borrow a mobile hotspot to use at home. The new equipment aims to end the waitlist.