Want Internet at your local library? You’re out of luck — for now

Like reading? And we’re not talking about stuff that’s on your Facebook timeline.

We’re talking about actual books.

If you’re a regular library visitor, start getting used to them. Because if you are visiting local libraries to go online these days, you are out of luck.

Thanks, Hurricane Irma.

On Monday, the Miami-Dade Public Library System sent an email announcing that the branches were continuing to work toward restoring their IT systems.

“Our online catalog, public computers, Internet access, Wi-Fi, and access to eBooks, audiobooks and other related online services are currently unavailable,” read the note. “We are actively working on solutions that will enable some of these services to be restored as soon as possible.”

Many families use library computers for such essential tasks as homework and job searching, so having no access to free Internet is a serious issue.

A 2014 Miami Herald article reported that some branches were already crowded with people clamoring for their services.

The bright side: If you have checked out books or any other materials sitting on your shelves at home, the due dates have been extended.

All branches are open on their normal schedules and you can continue to borrow stuff.

For updates, visit the MDPLS Facebook page or website.

This story was originally published September 25, 2017 at 12:29 PM with the headline "Want Internet at your local library? You’re out of luck — for now."