Premier Wireless Business Technology Solutions, a leading technology connectivity company, is helping close the digital divide among Sioux City residents. The goal of their partnership with Sioux City Public Library is to ensure that all citizens, regardless of economic status, have access to the wealth of information and resources that are found on the internet.

The Library is providing a combination of iPads, Chromebooks, hotspots, and routers for a total of 1900 devices, all with unlimited internet access that patrons can check out throughout 2023.

Premier worked closely with Sioux City Public Library to preload 300 iPads with apps and other information designed to enhance the end users experience. Patrons can use the apps to access resources, such as e-books, audiobooks, music, Google translate, and Google Maps. There is also an app to participate in reading challenges.

Studies have shown that those without reliable access to the internet are at a severe disadvantage in education, the workforce, and private life. In Sioux City, 17.8%, or over 30,000, households do not have broadband internet access at home. Library officials hope this initiative closes the vast connectivity gap.

“For some of our patrons, this initiative will be a lifeline, connecting them to opportunities they would not have had otherwise,” said Helen Rigdon, Director of Sioux City Public Library.

The library is paying for the "Internet for All" program through $1 million in funding from the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a federal program to help schools and libraries address the gap for those who currently lack necessary Internet access or the devices needed to connect to online resources.

“We are excited to be able to support this initiative by helping to equip people with the devices they need to succeed. Premier Wireless is happy to be able to support such an important initiative to close the digital divide,” said Lea Bogle, President & CEO of Premier Wireless Business Technology Solutions.

Sioux City Public Library will also be partnering with community organizations to provide access to these devices to ensure they reach those who are most in need. Premier Wireless will provide ongoing support throughout the year.

About Premier Wireless Business Technology Solutions

Premier Wireless Business Technology Solutions specializes in technology that enables safety, innovation, communication, and transformation for schools and other organizations in the public, non-profit, and private sectors.

For more information, contact solutions@pwbts.net