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KINGFISHER — The Oklahoma Broadband Office (OBO) celebrated the successful deployment of the state's first Community Access Portals at the Kingfisher Memorial Library, marking a major milestone in Oklahoma's effort to expand opportunities in rural communities.
The Community Access Portal Program will make up to 175 secure, accessible Portals available in public libraries across Oklahoma, creating a statewide network where residents can connect with essential services closer to home.
Each Community Access Portal is designed to provide a private, user-friendly space where Oklahomans can participate in virtual primary care appointments, workforce training, remote job interviews, educational opportunities, and other online services. The Portals will be compatible with widely used video conferencing platforms, enabling them to support new services as community needs evolve.
"Broadband is about more than connecting people to the internet — it is about connecting people to opportunity," said Mike Sanders, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Broadband Office. "Kingfisher Memorial Library is demonstrating what is possible when communities embrace technology that removes barriers created by geography. Whether someone needs to visit with their doctor, prepare for a new career, or gain new skills, these Community Access Portals ensure rural Oklahomans have access to the same opportunities as residents in our largest cities."
Joining Sanders in commemorating the program’s launch was Oklahoma Department of Libraries Executive Director, Natalie Currie.
“Public libraries have long served as gathering places where residents can access information, technology, and community resources,” said Currie. “This program builds on that foundation by creating secure spaces where patrons can confidently participate in digital services that improve quality of life and strengthen local communities.”
The Kingfisher deployment includes two of up to 175 Community Access Portals that will be installed in libraries across the state. Strong interest from libraries across Oklahoma reflects growing demand for new ways to expand access to essential services in rural communities. Public libraries interested in participating can submit a request through the Oklahoma Broadband Office’s Community Access Portal request form.
Residents can use the Community Access Portal Locator to see whether their local library has requested a Portal. The interactive map will show which libraries are participating, the number and type of Portals requested, and each library’s installation status.
This program is made possible through the ARPA Capital Projects Fund.
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For more information contact:
Nick Camper, Director of GIS & Data
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