BOSTON, MA - October 9, 2024 - Comcast awarded the Boston Public Library Fund a $50,000 grant to expand the Boston Public Library's (BPL) popular Connectivity Kit program, which loans a laptop and Internet connectivity to library patrons for up to 21 days. This donation strengthens the BPL's efforts to bridge the digital divide by nearly doubling the supply of kits available to Boston residents with a library card, making it easy to access critical online learning and digital literacy resources. The increased number of kits will dramatically reduce patrons' average wait time from a previous high of nearly 40 days to just one day.
"We are deeply grateful to Comcast for this vital support enabling us to extend the reach of our Connectivity Kits, especially with students in Boston back at school," said BPL President David Leonard. "With this grant, the BPL can further its dedication to empowering patrons of all ages with the tools they need for educational and professional development."
"Access to the Internet is an indispensable element of modern society and the Connectivity Kits are one of the most circulated items across the BPL," says Keith Gillette, Chief Technology Officer at the BPL. "Now, with Comcast's generous support, we will have the ability to maintain a full fleet of kits."
"We're delighted to partner with the Boston Public Library to help its patrons access a future of unlimited possibilities," said Carolyne Hannan, Senior Vice President of Comcast's New England Region. "Today, having a connected device coupled with digital literacy is vital, which is why we continue to provide and support programs that empower individuals to advance their skills to set them up for their professional futures."
For more information about the BPL's Connectivity Kit program or to reserve a kit, please visit bpl.org.
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ABOUT THE BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Established in 1848, the Boston Public Library is a pioneer of public library service in America. It was the first large, free municipal library in the United States; the first public library to lend books; the first to have a branch library; and the first to have a children’s room.
The Boston Public Library of today is a robust system that includes the Central Library in Copley Square, 25 neighborhood branches, the Norman B. Leventhal Map and Education Center, the Kirstein Business Library and Innovation Center, and an archival center, offering public access to world-class special collections of rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and prints, along with rich digital content and online services.
The Boston Public Library serves nearly 4 million visitors per year and millions more online. All of its programs and exhibitions are free to all and open to the public. The Boston Public Library is a department of the City of Boston, under the leadership of Mayor Michelle Wu. To learn more, visit bpl.org.
ABOUT THE BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY FUND
The mission of the Fund is to provide financial support to the Boston Public Library, ensuring that it remains viable, engaging, accessible, and free to all. The Fund fulfills this mission by working in partnership with the Library, donors, and other funders in supporting BPL programs and special initiatives. Support from the Fund supplements, but does not supplant, other BPL resources, including City of Boston funding. For more information, visit bplfund.org.
ABOUT COMCAST CORPORATION
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
