A WiFi hotspot can be used to connect devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets to the internet. WiFi hotspots are portable and use cellular networks to connect to the internet.
The John C. Hart Memorial Library offers WiFi hotspots that can be checked out, free of charge, by patrons who are John C. Hart Memorial Library cardholders in good standing. Patrons wishing to check out WiFi hotspots must read the Information and Guidelines and sign the User Agreement provided by the library.
John C. Hart Memorial Library
WiFi Hotspot Lending Program:
Information and Guidelines
Borrowing Eligibility
- Hotspots are available to John C. Hart Memorial Library cardholders with accounts in good standing.
- Patrons must be 18 years of age or older to borrow a hotspot. If a patron under the age of 18 wishes to borrow a hotspot, they must have a parent’s signature on the User Agreement together with the parent’s library card number. The parent’s account must be in good standing.
- The User Agreement may be completed online or in person at the Reference Desk.
- A patron must not have any fines on their card in order to borrow a hotspot.
Borrowing Information
- Patrons may borrow one hotspot per household, at a time. Patrons found to be in violation of this rule will have their hotspot borrowing privileges suspended.
- Hotspots may be borrowed for up to 14 days at a time. If a hotspot is not turned in by the due date given at checkout, it will be overdue.
- Overdue hotspots will accrue late fees and the hotspot service will be deactivated remotely once overdue 3 days.
Checkout
- Hotspots will be checked out at the Reference Desk. Hotspots and their accompanying accessories will be provided in a “kit.”
- All items will be inspected by staff and the borrowing patron at the time of checkout to ensure that all items are present and in acceptable condition.
- A complete hotspot “kit” consists of the following items:
- Hotspot
- Charging Cord
- Case
- Information Sheets
Check In
- Hotspots must be returned within their provided cases and all accessories to the Reference Desk.
- All items will be inspected at time of check in to ensure that all items are present and in acceptable condition.
Lost or Damaged Items
- Patrons are responsible for any damage or loss of hotspots or accessories while they are checked out.
- Lost or damaged items will be charged to the patron according to the following fees will be updated annually:
- Hotspot: $68
- Charging Cord: $10
Late Fees
- If a hotspot is kept beyond its due date, the patron will accrue fines on their account at the rate of $2 per day. After 5 days past due it is considered lost and the patron will be fined the full replacement cost of $78.00 until returned.
FAQ
- Why isn’t the hotspot working? Hotspots must be turned on to work. If the hotspot is not turning on, it may need to be charged before use. The hotspot may be used while plugged in and charging. Turning it off when it is not in use will save battery life.
- How do I connect to the hotspot?Please see the “Quick Start Guide,” located in the hotspot box.
- I want to keep my hotspot longer, why isn’t it working anymore?The hotspot service is disabled if it is kept past its due date. Please return the hotspot even if it is past due and the service is disabled.
- What is the WiFi name?The WiFi name is located on the back/underside of the hotspot device.
- What is the password?Passwords are located on the back/underside of the hotspot device. Please type this password exactly as it is shown.
- Can my friends or family connect to the hotspot?Yes, up to 10 devices may be connected to the hotspot at one time.
- Can I renew my hotspot?No, hotspots cannot be renewed. After check in, a patron may checkout a hotspot again after 48 hours.
- Where can I use the hotspot?The hotspot service is provided by Mobile Beacon and will only work within Mobile Beacon coverage areas in the U.S. Yorktown is within an area fully covered.
- If a hotspot is prompted to update software or firmware, what should I do? The hotspot will periodically receive updates from the service provider. You can accept the update.
- A Note on Content:The hotspots have content filtering in place to be in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). However, while this filter should prevent most pornographic and inappropriate material from being loaded on your device, the John C. Hart Memorial Library cannot guarantee that all inappropriate material will be blocked. Additionally, there is no guarantee that this device cannot be detected and used by outside parties.