$3 million ARPA investment to expand digital training, home Wi-Fi access in Monroe County

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello has announced a $3 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) investment to expand digital access and computer training opportunities through Monroe County Library System’s Wired for Opportunity initiative. This transformative program is designed to remove barriers to digital access and ensure residents have the tools they need to succeed in today’s increasingly connected world – with a focus on underserved individuals and older adults in the city of Rochester and rural areas of Monroe County.

Wired for Opportunity is a comprehensive, county-wide Digital Equity initiative that offers free computer education, access to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots (MiFi devices), installed solar-powered public Wi-Fi tables throughout the county and free subscriptions to the web-based learning platform Udemy at all libraries.

“This is about more than Wi-Fi or devices – it’s about giving people the tools and opportunities to succeed,” said County Executive Adam Bello. “Whether it’s finding a job, learning a new skill, or staying connected, Monroe County is committed to ensuring every resident has the tools and access they need to succeed – no matter their age, background or zip code. I’m grateful to the Monroe County Library System, our federal partners and the County Legislature for making this possible.”

Key components for the Wired for Opportunity Program include:
•Expansion of Mobile Wi-Fi Access: Purchase of 600 new MiFi units for checkout at Monroe County Libraries, bringing the total available to more than 1,000 devices by the end of 2025. Library cardholders can borrow high-speed MiFi hotspots for three-week periods.
•Free Computer Literacy Courses: Ongoing, four-week computer literacy programs offered at senior centers, community centers, and veterans’ facilities. Classes range from basic computer and phone skills to courses like intermediate Excel usage and web development. Upon completion of four courses, families are eligible to receive a free Chromebook or Google Pixel device through 2026.
•Free Access to Udemy at Monroe County Libraries: Monroe County library cardholders now have free access to Udemy, offering thousands of self-paced online courses on topics ranging from technology and business to wellness and creative arts. Udemy is also remotely available for anyone with an MCLS Library Card
•Installation of Solar-Powered Wi-Fi Tables: 10 solar-powered tables have been installed across Monroe County parks and public spaces, offering 24/7 free internet access. Solar tables can also be used to charge devices such as phones or laptops. Solar-powered Wi-Fi tables installed in the Westside News readership area include: Brockport – Corbett Park, 155 Clark Street; Greece – Canal Park, 241 Elmgrove Road; Hilton – Parma Town Hall Campus & Park, 1300 Hilton Parma Corners Road; Riga – The William Maher Lodge, 836 Sanford Road South.

“This investment is monumental for the westside and our rural communities,” said Legislator Jackie Smith. “Expanding digital access and offering free literacy training means more families, seniors, veterans, and students in towns like ours can stay connected, learn new skills, and seize opportunities. I’m grateful to our bipartisan partners who worked together to make sure no part of Monroe County is left behind in today’s digital world.”

In 2024 alone, Mi-Fi units were the Monroe County Library System’s most checked-out item with more than 5,200 check-outs.

Free computer literacy courses start now and will run through 2026 across a variety of locations across the county. To search for available courses, go to https://tinyurl.com/4rxdpmpr.

For more information, visit http://www.wiredforopportunity.org.

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