Nation's First Statewide Community Access Portal Program Launches in Kingfisher

Oklahoma took a first-in-the-nation step to expand access to healthcare, education and workforce opportunities in rural communities with the launch of the Oklahoma Broadband Office's statewide Community Access Portal Program.

The first Community Access Portal opened July 30 at Kingfisher Memorial Library, marking the beginning of a $14.5 million initiative that will make up to 175 portals available to libraries across Oklahoma. The secure, private spaces are designed to transform libraries into community access points where residents can participate in virtual primary care appointments, telehealth consultations, remote job interviews, workforce development services, online education and digital skills training closer to home.

More Ways to Benefit

View All

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

MEMBERS ONLY

View Benefit

Previous Next

1. Related Benefit 1
2. Related Benefit 2
3. Related Benefit 3
4. Related Benefit 4
5. Related Benefit 5

"Today is not only a special day for Kingfisher and the state of Oklahoma, but for the nation," said Oklahoma Broadband Office Director Mike Sanders. "This is the first-ever technology type of portals in the United States, and we're doing it right here in Kingfisher."

The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured demonstrations of the portal experience. Designed for privacy and accessibility, the units include sound-engineered acoustics, frosted glass doors and high-speed connectivity, creating secure spaces for healthcare appointments, job interviews, education and other online services. ADA-accessible portal models are also available to meet the needs of a wide range of users.

The new portals aim to address a challenge that has long affected rural communities: limited access to reliable broadband and the opportunities it makes possible.

"Rural communities in Oklahoma and across the country have always struggled with getting good broadband connections," said Dr. Brian Whitacre, professor of agricultural economics at Oklahoma State University and chairman of the Oklahoma Broadband Expansion Council. "There are a lot of things those of us with good broadband connections take for granted, like managing our bank accounts, catching up with family and friends or applying for jobs. This program really helps solve the problems for those in rural areas who don't have that."

AARP Oklahoma, which has long advocated for expanding broadband access and digital connectivity in rural communities, praised the program's potential to help older adults access healthcare, connect with essential services and maintain their independence.

"Reliable internet access is no longer a luxury. It's an essential tool for maintaining independence," said AARP Oklahoma State Director Sean Voskuhl. "These Community Access Portals help connect older Oklahomans with the information and opportunities to stay engaged and informed in their own communities, no matter where they are located."

Oklahoma took a first-in-the-nation step to expand access to healthcare, education and workforce opportunities in rural communities by launching the Oklahoma Broadband Office's statewide Community Access Portal Program. Libraries interested in participating can submit a request through the Oklahoma Broadband Office's Community Access Portal Program.