New York City residents can take advantage of more than 450 public computer centers across the five boroughs, offering free access to technology and training aimed at closing the digital divide.
Operated by the NYC Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI), the centers—including 128 locations in Queens—provide free Wi-Fi, public-use devices and digital literacy programs. The initiative is part of the city’s broader effort to expand digital equity and ensure residents have the tools needed for education, employment, and civic engagement.
In addition to basic internet and computer access, many centers are equipped with language access services, assistive technologies for individuals with disabilities, digital media production kits and even 3D printers.
OTI works in partnership with various city agencies to coordinate programming and provide funding for the centers, which serve as vital community resources for residents of all ages and backgrounds.
The public computer centers include locations at the Queens Public Library, Brooklyn Public Library, NYC Parks, Link NYC Gigabit Centers, NYC Aging, New York Public Library, Department of Youth and Community Development(DYCD), and NYC Housing Authority(NYCHA). An interactive map shows the centers for each borough to help users find the closest location.
Samantha Wright, associate commissioner of external partnerships for OTI, explained that these centers help to bring critical digital services to a wide range of clientele, from seniors to students to working professionals and beyond. “Access to technology and the supporting digital skills are essential for full participation in modern life. From education and healthcare to employment and civic engagement, New York City has achieved real growth in recent years, but significant gaps and challenges still exist,” Wright explained. “ Per the American Community Survey census data, approximately 12% of households in Queens do not have any type of broadband internet. That’s why these public computer centers are so significant.”
“New York City is committed to making sure no one falls behind in the digital age, and remains committed to creating an age-inclusive city, which is why we worked with OTI to place Public Computer Centers (PCCs) in older adult centers. PCCs are opening doors, providing older New Yorkers with access to tech devices, and developing critically important skills needed to thrive in today’s digital world,” added NYC Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. “PCCs also help older New Yorkers explore job opportunities, stay in touch with loved ones, and stay connected to their communities. These centers are not only helping us close the digital divide, they allowing older adults to continue living in their communities.”
The computer centers are part of OTI’s effort to bring digital equity to residents who may not have access to internet service or computers in their homes.
In 2022, OTI launched Big Apple Connect, which has expanded to provide free internet access to 330,000 public housing residents. Big Apple Connect gives NYCHA residents a free bundle consisting of an in-home, high-speed internet connection, including a modem and router; basic cable TV service, including a cable box and remote control; and common area Wi-Fi hotspots, selected in consultation with NYCHA.
Moreover, in March, Mayor Adams invested $2.4 million in digital equity initiatives. The capital funding was designated for renovating computer labs in libraries and older adult centers across the five boroughs. The funding was released in tandem with the NYC Digital Equity Roadmap, led by the OTI, which will advance digital equity for underserved residents. The roadmap outlines 11 new initiatives, including the creation of an interagency Digital Equity Working Group, expanding the city’s New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) mobile computer lab fleet, and the creation of a new chief digital equity officer.
