Red Bank Public Library Has A New, Stronger WiFi System

RED BANK, NJ — Improvements are underway at Red Bank Library, which recently got a new WiFi system.

The new WiFi has an increased bandwidth and is now strong enough to reach everyone on the library grounds, inside or outside of the building. It became functional on Aug. 27.

"This 'Wireless Wonders' will allow us to adapt to the changing needs of our community by enabling us to provide free WiFi to anyone on the library grounds at any time, even if our physical building must be closed to the public," a statement from the library said.

The library was chosen as one of 27 libraries awarded $1o,ooo in a grant from the NJ State Library to support the CARES ACT Mini-Grant for Public Libraries.

In August, U.S. Congressman for NJ-04 Chris Smith announced that the library would get a $67,048 federal grant to improve its service to the community, both in-person and virtually.

READ MORE: Red Bank Public Library Gets A $67K COVID-19 Federal Grant

"Library access was—and continues to be—impacted by COVID restrictions and protocols," said Smith, who represents Red Bank and 33 other Monmouth County towns.

Among the improvements planned, there will also be secure outdoor contactless pick-up lockers that will be able to be used by as many as 24 cardholders at the same time to pick up books or other materials at any hours.