The Reading Public Museum will soon provide free Wi-Fi access throughout its building, thanks to a $125,000 grant awarded through Republic Services Charitable Foundation’s National Neighborhood Promise (NNP) program.
Announced on April 8, the grant is part of an initiative that selected just 14 nonprofits across North America this year. The NNP program supports community revitalization by funding projects that promote sustainability, education, and improved quality of life.
The Reading Public Museum’s project, titled Investing in Reading, PA: Increasing Digital Accessibility at The Reading Public Museum, aims to enhance the educational experience for students, teachers, and visitors by providing reliable internet access across all public areas of the facility.
“Having Wi-Fi throughout The Museum has long been a dream at RPM,” said Geoffrey K. Fleming, Executive Director and CEO of the Museum. “We are so grateful for the support from the Republic Services Foundation to make this dream a reality. Having stable Wi-Fi will not only allow teachers, students, and visitors greater access to everything we have to offer, it will also let our educators utilize technology in a way that has never been possible before.”
With digital access now considered a crucial tool in both learning and daily life, museum officials say the installation will unlock new opportunities. Visitors will be able to research artwork, explore historical content, or enhance guided tours with digital resources—turning a visit into an interactive educational journey.
Elena Goodhall, director of Community Investment for Republic Services, emphasized the program’s focus on local impact. “We are committed to engaging with and investing in the communities we serve,” she said. “Our local teams work closely with our nonprofit partners on critical initiatives and projects that help foster sustainable neighborhoods.”
The Museum hopes the expansion of digital access will broaden its reach, welcoming a more diverse audience regardless of age, background, or financial situation. The installation is expected to strengthen the Museum’s role as a community hub and educational resource in Berks County.
