Wi-Fi Hotspots

 

What is a Wi-Fi hotspot?

A Wi-Fi hotspot is a device you can use to connect a mobile-enabled device, such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet to the internet.  The hotspot is portable, so you can connect your device almost anywhere, as long as there is service to the hotspot. More than one device can be connected to the Wi-Fi hotspot and in most situations, up to eight devices can be connected.

 

Terms and Conditions

The Meigs County District Public Library lends Wi-Fi Hotspots to cardholders ages 18 years old or above, in good standing (no lost charges or overdue items.)

Hotspot checkout is limited to one per household for a period of 14 days, and it can be renewed up to three times, as long as there are no holds.  Hotspots are available at the Circulation Desk on a first-come, first-served basis from the time of opening until one hour before the Library closes.  The Library reserves the right to refuse service to patrons who abuse equipment.  The Library is not responsible for any liability, damages or expense resulting from use or misuse of the device, connection of the device to other electronic devices, or data lost resulting from use of device.

Upon checkout, library staff will confirm, in the presence of the borrowing patron, that all items are present in the hotspot kit.   The patron must sign the library’s hotspot agreement before a hotspot can be checked out. Photo ID (valid drivers license or state ID card) must be presented.   Only one hotspot may be borrowed on a patron’s account at any one time.

The library will accept holds on the hotspot. Holds must be placed in person or over the phone. Wireless hotspots will not be sent out to OVLC libraries to fill holds. Patrons will be notified by phone when their hold is ready for pick-up.   Patrons will have 48 hours from the time of this notification call to check out the hotspot, after such time it will be released to another patron.  

Overdue hotspots will be deactivated within 24 hours after the due date. Patrons are not permitted to return the hotspot to the library’s book drop. Rather, hotspots must be returned directly to a library staff member, who will verify, in the presence of the borrowing patron, that all components of the hotspot are accounted for before checking it in from the borrowing patron’s account.  The hotspot will not be considered returned until all components of the hotspot are returned.  The cost to replace the library hotspot device is $90.00.  The cost to replace the charger is $10.00.  The cost to replace the case is $20.00.

By borrowing and initiating use of the library’s hotspot, the user agrees to abide by the library’s policies and rules, and agrees to hold the library and its agents harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities, directly or indirectly, relating to the use of the library’s hotspot and internet access provided by the library.   Deliberate altering of any files or modifying the configuration of library-owned equipment is strictly prohibited.

Internet service relies on cell tower technology and coverage.   Service outside the continental United States is prohibited; any fees associated with use outside of this area will be the responsibility of the borrower.  User experience can vary based on location.  The library is not responsible for personal information shared over the internet or for information or websites accessed.  The library is not responsible for any liability, damages, or expense resulting from the use of the hotspot.   A hotspot can provide internet access for up to 8 devices. 

The borrowing patron will be responsible for lost or damaged hotspots and accessories (includes theft thereof).  Patrons must be mindful of current replacement costs of mobile Hotspots and accessories before borrowing, as he or she will be responsible for paying the replacement cost of a damaged or lost hotspot device or accessories. 

Hotspots must be kept in a temperature-controlled environment (not left in vehicles or in extreme temperatures).

Parents/guardians are responsible for the use of the hotspot by minors.   Unlawful use of the internet or use that violates the library’s Computer Use Policy is prohibited and may result in the loss of privileges.    The library prohibits the use of its devices for the display or downloading of pornographic or obscene materials. In order to comply with federal law, the Library employs the use of filtering software to assist in prohibiting access to material that is obscene, contains child pornography, or is harmful to minors.  However, users should be aware that the nature of the internet precludes any filtering software from being fully effective.

For assistance in the operation of the library’s hotspots, borrowers may call the library during normal business hours.