We have libraries.
- Some libraries restrict Wi-Fi access to people who carry phones with GSM subscriptions that can be used for SMS verification at the captive portal -- which also excludes those whose browsers do not handle the captive portal page even if they carry a phone.
- The IP space of public libraries (assigned to both wi-fi devices and public PCs) is treated as shared IPs, so library patrons (including myself) are sometimes refused access by website firewalls that insist on IP addresses that are unique to the visitor.
- Some libraries have a membership fee. My local libraries just dropped the annual membership fee this year, thus not a barrier for my area but I would not assume all libraries EU-wide are fee-free.
- Library hours of operation usually do not go outside of normal working hours, which cuts out many day workers.
- Not many libraries mitigate the security risk of shoulder surfing. Library Wi-Fi access is also trivially MitMd with an imposter AP.
There is also the problem that online applications assume customers have online access for transactions going forward. That they have an email account that they monitor regularly. Which means it’s not just a single library visit to get the account open but continuity of access thereafter. I don’t imagine an online application that makes e-mail address optional. So this generally means people unwilling to share their banking relationship with Microsoft would be excluded as well.
More generally, US libraries have a library bill of rights which to some extent ensures inclusivity. European libraries do not, sadly enough. This enables things like deploying Wi-Fi that excludes some demographics of people in Europe.
Right to be Offline / Analog / Unplugged
The developed world is increasingly forcing people to use incompetently designed technology. The #digitalTransformation movement is being forced onto people.
Just like we cannot rely on the public sector to solve the climate crisis, we also cannot rely on the public sector to deploy well-designed privacy-respecting inclusive technology. We always need an analog option.