Law360 Canada (July 8, 2026, 11:45 AM EDT) -- Prince Edward Island is bringing internet access to those who lack it with portable hotspot devices available through the library — and there is “no reason” they could not be used for virtual court appearances, says a government spokesperson.

The Wi-Fi hotspot devices are now available for borrowing from provincial libraries, states a news release, which notes there are currently 20 devices available to the public.

A spokesperson with the province’s Public Schools Branch in Charlottetown was asked if people can use the devices to attend court virtually.

“In principle, there’s no reason these devices couldn’t support a virtual court appearance,” they said in an email. “The hotspots provide high-speed internet access that would allow users to connect via videoconferencing platforms on a laptop, tablet or smartphone. Whether or not courts allow this would be better answered by them.”

However, comment from P.E.I.’s courts was not received by press time.

The spokesperson said those attending “something as important as a court appearance” should make sure their device works with the hotspot and that there is adequate cellular coverage in their area.

Any resident 16 or older with an active public library card can borrow a device, they said.

The devices can be borrowed for up to three weeks and will be limited to one per library card, and one per household.

“The hotspots were purchased and provided by the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre Foundation (CLLCF),” states the release. “Over the past year, the foundation fundraised for these devices through a targeted campaign and events.… The foundation also applied for external grants to help cover the cost, including a $20,000 grant received from the Rotary Literacy Foundation of P.E.I.”

In a statement, P.E.I. Minister of Education Robin Croucher said the devices help “bridge the digital divide.”

“Adding these devices to our collection will help provide Islanders with fair access to the internet,” said Croucher. “It’s a good way to bridge the digital divide so that Islanders without access can better participate in society and enjoy the advantages of being online.”

CLLCF chair Susan Graham holds similar sentiments.

“We believe it’s important that all Islanders have access to the internet, regardless of their socioeconomic situation. In today’s world it can be difficult if not impossible to fully participate without online access. These devices can help in situations where having access is crucial.”

Data costs will be covered by the CLLCF.

Content filters are in place to block “illegal and malicious content,” notes the release.

“The devices may not be compatible with all hardware and may not work in areas with poor service,” and “any overdue devices will have their internet data shut off remotely.”

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