Expanding Library Networks

Expanding and Improving Library Networks

Library parking lots were access points for WiFi even before social distancing requirements due to COVID-19 made them essential connection points for internet access. During this current situation, public libraries are even more necessary in helping their community members access the internet to complete online tasks such as filing for unemployment and completing schoolwork. Libraries are encouraged to leave their WiFi networks on even when their buildings are closed wherever possible to meet this need and to extend the coverage area of WiFi outside.

• WiFi on Wheels: How—and why—libraries are bringing their services into communities (IMLS, May 29, 2020)
• ALA Executive Board recommends libraries should leave their WiFi networks on even when their buildings are closed (ALA, March 23, 2020)
• Community Use of E-Rate-Supported Wi-Fi is Permitted During Closures (FCC, March 23, 2020)

What Internet Speed Does the Library Need?

Different internet speeds are needed for different kinds of online activities. Activities such as email and advanced internet browsing require 1Mbps or less, while more bandwidth intensive activities such as streaming high definition video, online gaming, and video conferencing require 1.5 - 5 Mbps.

It’s useful to know just how much bandwidth, or the amount of data passing through network cables, is needed for specific types of activities and tools to assist users in your parking lot. National benchmarks established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recommend a minimum of 100 Mbps for serving smaller communities and 1 Gbps for libraries serving populations greater than 50,000 people.

Things like email or simple web-browsing are normally low bandwidth, but even during browsing you might be searching websites that have image-heavy pages or come across auto-play videos which will increase your bandwidth needs. Activities like streaming videos or web-conferencing consistently require higher bandwidth. Additionally, when there are groups of people multitasking between lots of different bandwidth intensive activities, each person will start to notice that their overall speed decreases.

The first step to strengthening your signal is to figure out how strong it is in the first place. Take a smartphone, tablet, or laptop and connect it to your library’s WiFi network. Then, go to various parts of your library’s parking lot or outdoor areas where you are expecting people to use the network and run an internet speedtest. Here are two reputable sources for speedtests:

• Speedtest by Ookla
• Speedtest by Google & M-Lab

Repositioning or Upgrading Equipment

Are there areas outside your building which would be great for patrons (parking lot, road, picnic table, benches), but where the Wi-Fi signal is inadequate?

If no additional funds can be spent:

• Take one of your library’s access points and move it close to a window nearest to your parking lot. The closer your access point is to where people will be using it, the better the signal.
• Contact your Internet Service Provider and determine the maximum Mbps your building receives under your current contract or agreement. During this crisis, many ISPs will temporarily offer free speed upgrades, waive overages, or offer other free promotions or services. Ask if anything is available to your library.

If additional funds can be spent:

Ensure your current equipment does not reduce your speed.

• For example, your ISP contract may be for 140 Mbps but if your modem’s maximum rate is 100 Mbps you are losing speed. In this case you should look into replacing your modem and router.
• Depending on the age and capabilities of your wireless router or access point, you may be able to purchase a new one with significantly better range and speed. If you have multiple access points, you should prioritize the one that impacts exterior users for the purposes of this grant.

Determine what equipment you need to bring your network to the parking lot or outdoor area. Three options:

• Replace your modem and router with upgraded models. If possible, choose a simultaneous dual-band or tri-band router which supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Ensure the devices work with your ISP. Daisy chain your old router to the new router and place it by a window facing the parking lot.
• Purchase a new wireless extender or multiple new wireless routers, either indoor or outdoor. An extender simply extends the reach of your wireless network. If possible, choose a simultaneous dual-band or tri-band device which supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Ensure the device works with your ISP. Install it near a window facing the parking lot or outdoors.
• Purchase a new wireless repeater, either indoor or outdoor. This device essentially creates a clone of your original network re-broadcasted to a second location and involves more complex setup. If possible, choose a dual-band or dual-radio device. Ensure the device works with your ISP. Install it near a window facing the parking lot or outdoors.

Wireless Access Point (WAP) – Is there an ethernet jack near that spot, or can you run an ethernet cable to it without issue? If so, an extra Wireless Access Point provides the best bandwidth.

Mesh Extender – If getting an ethernet cable to that spot is impractical, you could consider a Mesh Extender. This connects to your existing Wi-Fi and rebroadcasts the signal. Though not as effective as a WAP connected to ethernet, they have gotten much better in the last few years.

Outdoor Wireless Device – There are outdoor options for both WAP’s and Mesh Extenders, but the installation is more involved, and they require power and/or an ethernet connection.