Ontario Expands Internet Access in First Nations and Rural Libraries
TORONTO, ON — The Ontario government is expanding reliable internet access across First Nations and rural communities by investing $660,000 through the Internet Connectivity Grant program. The increased funding — up $78,000 from last year — will allow an additional 30 public libraries to join the program, ensuring that all First Nation public libraries and four additional rural libraries are fully reimbursed for internet costs.
The initiative aims to strengthen access to free and dependable digital services in communities where high-speed home internet is often limited or unaffordable.
Libraries as Community Hubs
“Public libraries are a vital hub in any community that connects people to learning, culture and one another,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “This increased funding will ensure dependable access to essential digital tools and resources in communities across the province. By supporting public libraries, we are protecting community spaces that empower people of all ages to learn and develop the skills they need to succeed.”
Beyond borrowing books, many Ontarians rely on their local libraries for online tutoring, job training, language learning, and social connection. A Toronto Public Libraries 2023–24 report found that nearly one in three northern Ontarians without home internet depend on public libraries for remote education, employment searches, and access to online resources.
Michelle Arbuckle, Executive Director of the Ontario Library Association, emphasized the importance of expanding the grant: “Public libraries are essential access points for high-speed internet, particularly in small, rural, and First Nations communities where subscription costs are high and at-home service is limited or unavailable. We thank the Ontario Government for expanding the Internet Connectivity Grant, which will ensure more Ontarians can connect close to home.”
Supporting First Nations Communities
Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, noted the broader impact: “Accessible and reliable internet elevates education, economic opportunities, and community connection. In expanding the Internet Connectivity Grant, we are ensuring that all First Nation public libraries can continue providing this critical service at no cost to their communities.”
A Step Toward Province-Wide Connectivity
The expansion of the Internet Connectivity Grant is part of Ontario’s broader plan to make high-speed internet available in every community. By supporting libraries as access points, the province ensures that small, rural, and First Nations communities are not left behind in the digital economy.
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