Borrow a Hotspot

Mobile Hotspots Lending 

Stay connected while on the go! The Mechanicsville Public Library now offers 4G LTE mobile hotspot devices for checkout. Work effectively outside the home or office, watch your favorite shows while on vacation, stay on top of your email inbox, and more with these portable devices that fit in the palm of your hand. 

Mobile hotspots allow you to share a wireless network connection with other devices, so you can access the internet. Devices connect to the mobile hotspot using their Wi-Fi feature.  

 

Mechanicsville Public Library cardholders who are 18 years of age or older and in good standing can borrow a mobile hotspot for one week (7 days) and enjoy internet access anywhere T-Mobile provides data coverage. One hotspot can connect up to eight Wi-Fi capable devices at a time, including laptops, tablets, smartphones, desktop computers, and more. 

 

The Library’s collection of mobile hotpots is stored at the Front Desk, so you will need staff assistance to check one out. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

 

Is there a fee to checkout a hotspot? 

No, mobile hotspots are free to borrow. 

 

Who can borrow a mobile hotspot?  How many hotspots can I check out at one time? 

Mechanicsville Public Library cardholders, 18 years of age or older, in good standing with an account that has been active for 60 days, may borrow a hotspot. One hotspot may be checked out per card/household at a time.

 

How long can I borrow the hotspot? 

Hotspots may be checked out for one week (7 days), with no renewals. Mobile hotspots can be placed on hold through our online catalog. 

 

How do I check out a hotspot? 

Mobile hotspots are stored at the Front Desk.  You will be required to fill out a Hotspot Lending Agreement prior to each checkout (see PDF below).  Each hotspot carrying case includes the device, a power cord, and basic start-up instructions.

 

How do I return the hotspot?

Hotpots need to be returned inside the library to a staff member at the front desk (not inside the book return).  Patron must remain present while the equipment is checked and cleared from the borrower's account.. 

 

What are the fees if the hotspot is overdue or lost? 

There are no library fees for overdue items.  However, overdue hotspots will be deactivated within 24 hours of the due date.

Card holders will be charged the following for damaged/lost/stolen hotspot parts/equipment:

 

Moble Hotspot Replacement Costs

Mobile Hotspot Unit $100.00
Charging Cord/Adapter $15.00
Case $17.00
Total Replacement Cost $132.00

 

 

Are there limits to where the hotspots will work? 

The Mechanicsville Public Library’s mobile hotspots will work anywhere T-Mobile has data coverage.  View the T-Mobile data coverage map. 

 

How do I turn on the hotspot? What if I need help using it? 

Each hotspot carrying case includes start-up instructions. More complete instructions can be found in the user’s manual. See PDF below with Operating Instructions.

 

If you need further assistance using the hotspot, please stop by or call the library at 563-462-7135.

Lender Agreement Form

Connecting Instructions