Q. What are available options in Sarasota County for affordable internet?

Affordable internet options are available within Sarasota County. 

Internet options with Sarasota County Libraries

All of our libraries have public computers with Internet access and free wi-fi available that can be accessed from your own device.

The public computers may be used during library hours with a library card or with a guest pass.

To connect to our wifi within the building, open your device's wifi settings and click on the name of your library's wifi network, such as selby-library-guest or jacaranda-library-guest. 

Mobile hotspots are available for any adult with a Sarasota County library card in good standing. Mobile hotspots may have a request/hold list as with other locations. Devices with wi-fi capability may be able to connect to mobile hotspots. This Library FAQ provides more information about our mobile hotspots.

Home and mobile internet options

Every person/household has different internet needs. It may be helpful to determine your needs when seeking to apply for or change internet service. This household broadband guide from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) may be a helpful place to start.

Considerations may include:

• Would home internet or mobile internet/data service work better for your needs?
• What type of activities would you or your household need to perform online? Do you or someone in your household access the internet for email, school assignments, working from home, social media, streaming services, online video games, etc.?

The Federal Communications Commission has information about getting connected to the internet (broadband internet services), which includes guides and question and answer pages. Their pages can help determine the internet service needs that your household may need, such as download speeds, and monthly download limits.

If the household does not qualify for Lifeline, it may be helpful to review the different internet options/packages from service providers in the area. Contact your service provider to determine which option may be best for your household's internet needs.

Assistance for applying for Lifeline

Some households may qualify for affordable internet programs such as Lifeline. Review the eligibility and usage requirements for Lifeline.

• Note: If someone in the household qualifies for Lifeline, start with a Lifeline application, wait for a decision (regularly check emails), and take appropriate action.

Local organizations are trained to provide direct assistance in applying for the Lifeline. These organizations are partnered with The Patterson Foundation as Digital Navigators.

Contact one of the participating organizations for more information about the level of service that they offer.