GLASGOW’S libraries have gone wireless.

All 33 of the city’s libraries now have free public Wi-Fi internet access for residents and visitors to use.

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One in three households across the city – that’s more than 86,000 homes – is still without access to fixed broadband internet.

Now anyone can access the internet, thanks to Glasgow Life and BT, supported by the Scottish Government Public Wireless Programme Fund.

Andrew Olney, Head of Libraries and Communities at Glasgow Life, said: “Wi-Fi is an example of cutting-edge technology that has become an essential part of everyday life and I’m delighted that we are able to offer this service for free to the people of Glasgow.

“This provision comes in addition to the computers already available in our 32 community libraries, and the iconic Mitchell Library. 

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“Across the city, libraries have more than 600 fast, secure, internet-enabled PCs, all free for residents and visitors to our fair city to use.”

The free Wi-Fi service will also create opportunities for those not currently logged in to digital technology to explore the benefits of going online, with training and support on how to get connected. 

Library customers will be able to access computer-based study programmes across the city’s libraries. 

Getting Started classes offer support and guidance for all – with classes ranging from how to use a mouse to accessing the internet.

And the Goals 4 Work programme offers tailored support to highlight the benefits of using a computer for job searching and CV writing. 

Delivered at all 33 libraries across the city, the courses offer insight into the benefits of using a computer, with more than 8,800 attendances recorded in 2015/16.

And with the newly launched Digi-PALS service, delivered at 18 of the city’s libraries, dedicating more than 50 hours each week to helping Glaswegians get to grips with everything from switching on a PC to uploading photographs from a digital camera; sending a text to downloading an e-book.

Brendan Dick, director of BT Scotland said: “Thanks to BT’s Wireless Cities Programme, Glasgow became the first city in Scotland to offer free urban Wi-Fi in July, 2014 and we’re extremely proud of helping the city move to the very forefront of digital connectivity. 

“Taking Wi-Fi into Glasgow’s 33 libraries is another step along the digital inclusion path. Libraries are dedicated to sharing information through books, internet-enabled computers, DVDs, music and other resources, and free access to Wi-Fi is a great addition to the superb facilities they offer.”

The Wi-Fi provision offers no time restriction. on the length of time users can browse the internet.

Pamela Tulloch, Chief Executive Officer for the Scottish Libraries and Information Council, said: “Libraries are at the heart of promoting digital inclusion within communities in Scotland and encouraging digital participation. 

“Public Libraries have an enviable track record in helping people learn to use digital technologies. 

“Access to Wi-Fi will enable people not only to use their own devices in their local libraries but also access the fabulous digital offer which libraries provide such as e-books, e-audio books , e-magazines and access to information.”