Cori Bush Instagram – The end of the St. Louis Public Library’s hotspot lending program represents a loss for our public libraries and for our community as a whole.
The heavily used program played a crucial role in expanding internet access for our neighbors, students, and seniors. This program is just one of the many services provided by our libraries that must be protected and fully funded so that they can continue to serve as community gathering places for the people of St. Louis.
I understand how important it is to fully fund our community’s libraries and other public services. While I represented Missouri’s 1st District, my colleagues and I introduced Resolution Recognizing the Human Rights to Utilities, to affirm that access to safe, reliable, and affordable water, sanitation, electricity, heating, cooling, broadband, and public transit are all basic human rights that are necessary for healthy communities.
I also worked with our local libraries to develop ‘Congress in your Neighborhood,’ my initiative to be as reachable as possible to my constituents. Spaces that were provided by the St. Louis Public Libraries and St. Louis County Libraries allowed my team to staff constituent service desks that met our neighbors where they are and provide help with federal agencies, immigration assistance, tax resources, obtaining federal documents, securing passports, military service academy nominations, and more.
It is especially disappointing to see this free service end at a time when everyday people struggle to afford basic necessities and the cost of internet and telecommunications services continue to rise. When I’m back in office, I’ll fight for our libraries and public programs. We’ll ensure that we properly fund our libraries so they can continue to play an essential role in our communities and provide services to the people who rely on them. | Posted on 10/Dec/2025 00:27:36
